Key Takeaways
- Driventic has launched the Electric Air Compressor (EAC) tailored for electric trucks and buses, achieving pressures up to 15 bar.
- The EAC offers up to 35% energy savings compared to traditional compressors, enhancing cost-efficiency for fleet management.
- Production of the EAC is set to begin in late 2027, with pilot customers already interested in field trials.
Introduction of the Electric Air Compressor
Driventic has unveiled its Electric Air Compressor (EAC), specifically designed for electric trucks and buses. This advanced compressed-air system operates at pressures of up to 15 bar, focusing on efficiency and performance for electrified commercial vehicles.
Design and Functionality
The EAC features a robust two-stage reciprocating compressor that incorporates its own oil system alongside water or refrigerant cooling. Driventic has thoughtfully integrated the electric motor, silencers, oil circuit, heat exchangers, and sensors into a compact enclosure. Through mass balancing and insulation techniques, the company effectively minimizes vibration and noise, which are critical factors for vehicle comfort and operational efficiency.
Energy Efficiency and Maintenance
According to Driventic, the two-stage compression technology can reduce energy consumption by up to 35% when compared to traditional air compressors. Jörg Auerswald, Vice President of Engine Components at Driventic, noted that this energy efficiency is particularly advantageous for fleet management, which is increasingly focused on both energy and cost savings, especially in electric trucks and buses. The EAC is designed for long maintenance intervals, extending up to four years or 24,000 hours for trucks, and four years or 12,000 hours for buses, depending on usage. Its modular design further contributes to lowered operating costs.
Why Electric Air Compressors Are Necessary
Pneumatic systems, including brakes, suspension, and door mechanisms in heavy commercial vehicles, rely on compressed air. Traditional diesel trucks utilize an engine-driven compressor, while battery-electric trucks necessitate an electrically-driven solution. As each watt consumed by the air compressor impacts battery performance and vehicle range, the EAC’s development is aligned with the growing demand for sustainable electrified solutions.
Future Plans and Market Interest
Driventic is currently advancing the EAC from prototype construction and validation, targeting a production start by late 2027. The company is engaging potential pilot customers who have already expressed interest in participating in field trials, highlighting the expected demand for this innovative technology in the commercial vehicle sector.
Source: Driventic
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