ZF and Foton have announced an expansion of their strategic partnership to introduce innovative hybrid drive systems for commercial vehicles in China. This collaboration is set to play a significant role in the ongoing efforts to decarbonise the transportation sector. The TraXon 2 Hybrid system, developed by ZF, aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions while maintaining many of the advantages of internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies, providing a flexible and transformative solution for the industry.
The TraXon 2 Hybrid system is characterised by its highly integrated design and the inclusion of a powerful hybrid module. This design enables original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to incorporate hybrid technologies into their existing platforms with reduced integration efforts and complexity. TraXon 2 Hybrid is engineered to enhance overall efficiency and significantly reduce CO2 emissions while retaining the range and refuelling capabilities of combustion engines. It is suitable for both full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid heavy-duty commercial vehicles, and its versatility allows for seamless integration into various vehicle architectures, promoting flexibility and adaptability.
The announcement was made during IAA Transportation 2024, where ZF and Foton signed a Letter of Intent to deepen their strategic cooperation. This builds on the success of their existing joint venture, which has been delivering the TraXon automatic transmission and electric drives in China. The joint venture between ZF and Foton will be responsible for manufacturing and introducing this hybrid transmission into the Chinese market.
Prof Dr Peter Laier, Member of the ZF Board of Management and responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division, emphasised that the launch of the new hybrid transmission in China demonstrates ZF's commitment to driving the transformation of new energy vehicles and promoting sustainable development in the commercial vehicle industry.
Foton's Chairman, Chang Rui, added 'The hybrid AMT system is a key initiative for Foton and ZF to respond to the new energy transformation of commercial vehicles. This strategic cooperation marks a deepening relationship between the two companies and signifies Foton's commitment to providing more diverse commercial vehicle solutions to China and the global market.'
The system is expected to commence global series production (SOP) in 2026, with the Chinese market being the first to benefit from this innovative technology. By introducing this hybrid transmission system, ZF and Foton aim to lead the way in providing sustainable and efficient commercial vehicle solutions, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions in China's rapidly evolving transportation sector.
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