Heavy Transport

What Will Be the Mainstream Battery Capacity of Electric Heavy Trucks in 2025? In 2024, the electric heavy truck market has seen unprecedented changes. Fierce industry competition, exploration of long-haul transportation, significant price drops, the rise of large-battery electric heavy trucks, and the resurgence of fast-charging trucks have all shaped the current landscape. Among these changes, the sharp decline in vehicle prices has left the deepest impact. More importantly, it has accelerated the large-scale adoption of electric heavy trucks with higher battery capacities — a trend that is fundamentally reshaping fleet operations. The substantial reduction in purchase costs has opened the door for the widespread deployment of electric heavy trucks equipped with large-capacity battery packs. While electric heavy trucks with smaller battery capacities have seen a relative decline in market share, their sales continue to grow steadily. They remain an essential part of the market and are far from being phased out. According to the Research, the battery capacity of electric heavy trucks currently available on the market varies significantly — ranging from 282 kWh to 729 kWh. This diversity provides operators with more choices, but also raises an important question: How should fleet operators choose the right electric heavy truck configuration for their specific application scenarios? (Note: This article refers to electric heavy trucks used for legally compliant, standard-load transportation.) Operational Scenarios Define Battery Capacity Requirements After several years of development, electric heavy trucks have been primarily applied in short-distance transport scenarios, such as port drayage, mining logistics, and regional distribution. However, the industry is actively testing electric heavy trucks in long-haul and trunk line transportation, leading to increasingly diverse and complex operational demands. One of the most widely discussed topics remains driving range — a factor directly linked to battery capacity. While a higher battery capacity provides a longer range, it also increases vehicle weight, reducing payload capacity and potentially affecting profitability. For instance, a 300 kWh battery pack typically weighs around 1,875 kg. Including the battery frame and auxiliary structures, the total battery system weight easily exceeds 2 tons. (This calculation assumes an energy density of 160 Wh/kg, meaning approximately 6.25 kg per kWh.) Under legal load restrictions, the heavier the battery, the lower the cargo capacity — posing a challenge for operators to balance battery size and transport efficiency. Example 1: Short-Haul Urban Logistics — Prioritizing Light Weight and Flexibility In urban logistics scenarios, where electric heavy trucks operate within a city radius of 100-150 km, smaller battery capacities are often more practical. For example, a 350 kWh battery pack provides sufficient range for daily operations while minimizing additional vehicle weight. A logistics company operating within a port area in Shanghai chose electric heavy trucks equipped with 350 kWh batteries. These trucks focus on high-frequency, short-distance transport tasks, benefiting from fast-charging stations deployed within the port zone. The lighter battery system allows the trucks to maximize payload capacity while maintaining operational flexibility. Example 2: Long-Haul Trunk Line Transportation — Embracing Large-Capacity Batteries For long-haul transport scenarios, where electric heavy trucks must travel 300-400 km or more between charging opportunities, larger battery capacities become essential. In northern China, a coal transport fleet has adopted electric heavy trucks equipped with 729 kWh battery packs. These vehicles operate on a dedicated trunk line of approximately 350 km between two mining sites and a port terminal. The large-capacity batteries ensure sufficient range under heavy-load conditions and allow for fewer charging interruptions, improving overall transport efficiency. Conclusion: Choosing the Right Battery Capacity for Electric Heavy Trucks Ultimately, the choice of battery capacity for electric heavy trucks depends on the specific operational scenario. Operators must carefully evaluate transport distance, charging infrastructure availability, cargo load requirements, and total cost of ownership. Looking ahead to 2025, it is expected that electric heavy trucks with battery capacities ranging from 350 kWh to 600 kWh will become the mainstream choice for most standard logistics applications. Meanwhile, ultra-large battery systems above 700 kWh will continue to serve specialized long-haul and heavy-load transport needs. With the ongoing advancement of battery technology and the expansion of fast-charging networks, the future of electric heavy trucks looks promising, offering operators more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective transport solutions. Looking for a customized EV solution for your electric heavy truck project?Discover here or contact us at contact@BrogenEVSolution.com Contact Us Get in touch with us by sending us an email, using the Whatsapp number below, or filling in the form below. We usually reply within 2 business days. Email: contact@brogenevsolution.com Respond within 1 business day Whatsapp: +8619352173376 Business hours: 9 am to 6 pm, GMT+8, Mon. to Fri. LinkedIn channel Follow us for regular updates > YouTube channel Ev systems introduction & industry insights > ContactFill in the form and we will get in touch with you within 2 business days.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Work Email *Company Name *Your Project Type *– Please select –Car, SUV, MPVBus, coach, trainLCV (pickup truck, light-duty truck, etc.)HCV (heavy-duty truck, tractor, trailer, concrete mixer, etc.)Construction machinery (excavator, forklift, crane, bulldozer, loader, etc.)Vessel, boat, ship, yacht, etc.Others (please write it in the note)Your Interested Solutions *– Please select –Motore-AxleBatteryChassisAuxiliary inverterOBC / DCDC / PDUAir brake compressorEPS / EHPS / SbW / eRCBBTMSOthers (please write it in the note)Do you have other contact info? (Whatsapp, Wechat, Skype, etc.)Please introduce your project and your request here. * Checkbox * I consent to receive updates on products and events from Brogen, and give consent based on Brogen’s Privacy Policy. Submit

Tips for Choosing the Right Electric Truck As the adoption of electric trucks continues to rise, their economic and environmental advantages are becoming increasingly evident across various use cases. More and more logistics companies are now considering a transition from traditional diesel-powered trucks to electric alternatives. However, shifting to electric trucks is not merely a matter of replacing diesel engines with electric motors. It requires a holistic transformation that includes considerations around battery range, charging infrastructure, operational strategies, and business model adjustments. According to industry research, many fleet operators are still in the exploratory phase of their electrification journey. The most common questions they face are:How do we select the right electric truck?What battery capacity is appropriate for our operations?This article provides a brief analysis of these two critical questions. 1. Understanding Two Key Energy Consumption Metrics: Technical vs. Economic Energy efficiency is a key factor for logistics companies when choosing a truck. In the diesel era, manufacturers emphasized fuel economy. In the electric era, the focus has naturally shifted to electricity consumption. However, the energy consumption figures provided by electric truck manufacturers are often based on short-term, controlled testing conditions—what can be called “laboratory data”—and may differ significantly from real-world usage. Before purchasing an electric truck, it’s essential to distinguish between two types of energy consumption metrics: ● Technical Metric (kWh/km) This refers to the energy used per kilometer to drive the vehicle and is the most commonly advertised figure by OEMs. Under standard test conditions—such as on level roads with balanced loading—many electric heavy-duty trucks achieve an average of 1.5 kWh per kilometer.However, this figure typically excludes the energy consumed by auxiliary systems such as thermal management, air conditioning, battery heating or cooling systems, and more. In real-world scenarios, especially during northern winters, the actual range of electric trucks can drop to only 60% of what is achievable in summer, meaning energy consumption increases significantly. Therefore, the technical metric is more of an idealized efficiency indicator that reflects the performance of the motor and drivetrain under optimal conditions, without accounting for real-life variables. ● Economic Metric (kWh per Ton) This is a more realistic metric for fleet operations. Rather than measuring energy per kilometer, it calculates energy use based on the amount of cargo transported—specifically, the total electricity consumed divided by the total tonnage hauled. This “ton-kWh” metric includes both driving energy and the power consumed by auxiliary systems. For logistics companies, focusing on this economic metric allows for a more accurate assessment of a vehicle’s real-world energy efficiency and operating cost, making it a more valuable reference for decision-making. It’s also important to remember that energy consumption can vary significantly depending on operational context, driving habits, road conditions, and climate. All of these should be considered when selecting a vehicle. 2. Is Bigger Battery Capacity Always Better? Once energy consumption is well understood, the next key question for logistics companies is: How much battery capacity do we really need?Battery capacity directly determines the driving range and operational efficiency of an electric heavy-duty truck. Selecting the right battery specification for specific transport scenarios is critical for fleet operators. With technological advancements and declining raw material costs, battery options on the market have become increasingly diverse. Capacities have grown from 282 kWh just a few years ago to 350 kWh, 423 kWh, and even 500–800 kWh packs are now available. But does bigger always mean better when it comes to batteries? ● The Trade-offs of Larger Battery Packs Admittedly, a larger battery pack can significantly extend a truck’s driving range and reduce the frequency of charging, improving operational flexibility. This naturally appeals to many logistics operators looking to maximize efficiency. However, when choosing battery capacity, companies must carefully balance several factors — including actual operational needs, cost budgets, and compatibility with available charging infrastructure. ● Key Considerations: If local charging facilities cannot support fast charging for large-capacity batteries, it may hinder the vehicle’s turnaround efficiency — offsetting the benefits of a larger battery. Heavier batteries increase the truck’s curb weight, reducing its payload capacity and, in turn, affecting the profitability of the fleet. For example, current battery technology adds approximately 5 to 6 kg of weight per additional kilowatt-hour. Comparing a 282 kWh battery to a 423 kWh battery, the weight difference exceeds 700 kg. If a truck operates two trips per day, this weight penalty translates to a reduction of 1.5 tons of cargo capacity daily. Over the course of a year (assuming 300 working days), the lost payload could amount to 450 tons — a significant profit loss that logistics companies cannot ignore. Moreover, larger battery packs drive up the initial vehicle purchase cost, placing additional financial pressure on logistics operators in the early stages of electrification. Final Thoughts Whether evaluating the true energy consumption of an electric truck or selecting the appropriate battery capacity, logistics companies must consider these decisions within the context of their specific transport scenarios and operational requirements. By taking a comprehensive approach — weighing energy efficiency, operational demands, infrastructure readiness, and cost-effectiveness — companies can strike the optimal balance between economic benefit and operational efficiency, paving the way for sustainable fleet development in the electric era. Contact Us Get in touch with us by sending us an email, using the Whatsapp number below, or filling in the form below. We usually reply within 2 business days. Email: contact@brogenevsolution.com Respond within 1 business day Whatsapp: +8619352173376 Business hours: 9 am to 6 pm, GMT+8, Mon. to Fri. LinkedIn channel Follow us for regular updates > YouTube channel Ev systems introduction & industry insights > ContactFill in the form and we will get in touch with you within 2 business days.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Work Email *Company Name *Your Project Type *– Please select –Car, SUV, MPVBus, coach, trainLCV (pickup truck, light-duty truck, etc.)HCV (heavy-duty truck, tractor, trailer, concrete mixer, etc.)Construction machinery (excavator, forklift, crane, bulldozer,

Eight Configuration Types of Heavy Duty Truck E-Axle Global trends in the development of electric drive systems for new energy vehicles indicate a clear shift towards the integration and unification of powertrain components. Leading automotive manufacturers, including Tesla, General Motors, FAW, Dongfeng, and Geely, are icnreasingly focusing on consolidating key elements such as the drive motor, motor controller, and reducer into integrated electric drive assemblies as a strategic priority for future development. This trend is particularly relevant to the electric drive axles used in heavy-duty trucks, offering significant advantages in terms of enhanced system efficiency, reduced size and weight, lower costs, and streamlined mass production.  Here’re eight main configuration types for the heavy duty truck e-axle. 1. Single motor, 2-speed parallel axis configuration Features: 4-shaft, 3-stage reduction, AMT The 2-speed gearbox balances low-speed, high torque for starting and maximum motor speed at top vehicle speeds. Issues: Power interruption occurs during gear shifting with the AMT 2. Single motor, 3-speed parallel axis configuration Features: 3-shaft, 3-stage reduction, AMT The 3-speed gearbox balances low-speed, high torque for starting and maximum motor speed at top vehicle speeds. Issues: Power interruption occurs during gear shifting with the AMT 3. Single motor, 4-speed parallel axis configuration Features: 5-shaft, 4-stage reduction, AMT The 4-speed electric drive axle completely resolves the conflict between motor torque and speed. Issues: The transmission mechanism is overly complex. Power interruption still occurs during gear shifting. 4. Dual motor, single-speed parallel axis configuration Features: Dual 4-shaft, 3-stage reduction, shared differential Resolves the power interruption issue Issues: Narrow high-efficiency range and poor adaptability to varying operating conditions 5. Dual motor, 2-speed parallel axis configuration Features: Dual 3-shaft, 3-stage reduction, shared mechanical differential By replacing one large motor with two smaller motors, this configuration reduces energy consumption and saves costs 6. Dual motor, dual 2-speed parallel axis configuration Features: Dual 4-shaft, 3-stage reduction, shared mechanical differential Resolves the power interruption issue during AMT gear shifting 7. Distributed single-speed parallel axis configuration Features: Dual 4-shaft, 3-stage reduction, no mechanical differential Improves transmission efficiency Saves chassis space Enhances vehicle performance and stability 8. Distributed wheel-end reduction configuration Features: Dual 3-stage reduction, no mechanical differential Improves transmission efficiency Saves chassis space Enhances vehicle performance and stability Our Distributed Heavy-Duty Truck E-Axle Our distributed electric axle for heavy-duty truck features a powerful dual-motor design, delivering up to 360 kW of output power and over 50,000 N.m of torque. With its distributed drive architecture, the e-axle for trucks ensures uninterrupted power during gear shifts while adding an extra layer of safety redundancy. Designed for demanding applications, it is compatible with a wide range of (hybrid) electric vehicles, such as trucks, buses, coaches, tractors, trailers, trains, etc., offering a robust, cost-effective, and high-performance solution for OEMs. Download Brochure Contact Us Get in touch with us by sending us an email, using the Whatsapp number below, or filling in the form below. We usually reply within 2 business days. Email: contact@brogenevsolution.com Respond within 1 business day Whatsapp: +8619352173376 Business hours: 9 am to 6 pm, GMT+8, Mon. to Fri. LinkedIn channel Follow us for regular updates > YouTube channel Ev systems introduction & industry insights > ContactFill in the form and we will get in touch with you within 2 business days.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * FirstLast Work Email *Company Name *Your Project Type *– Please select –Car, SUV, MPVBus, coach, trainLCV (pickup truck, light-duty truck, etc.)HCV (heavy-duty truck, tractor, trailer, concrete mixer, etc.)Construction machinery (excavator, forklift, crane, bulldozer, loader, etc.)Vessel, boat, ship, yacht, etc.Others (please write it in the note)Your Interested Solutions *– Please select –Motore-AxleBatteryChassisAuxiliary inverterOBC / DCDC / PDUAir brake compressorEPS / EHPS / SbW / eRCBBTMSOthers (please write it in the note)Do you have other contact info? (Whatsapp, Wechat, Skype, etc.)Please introduce your project and your request here. * Checkbox * I consent to receive updates on products and events from Brogen, and give consent based on Brogen’s Privacy Policy. Submit

Electric Heavy-Duty Truck Design: Which E-Powertrain is Better? At Brogen, we’ve spent a lot of time developing electric axle systems for commercial vehicles, particularly in heavy-duty applications like semi-trucks, tractors, and trailers. In this article, we’ll explore different electric powertrain systems, compare solutions, and discuss the pros and cons of each. 1. Types of E-Powertrain Systems Electric powertrain systems for heavy-duty vehicles can be categorized into three main configurations based on motor layout: Central Direct Drive: Direct drive motor Electric Drive Axles: Parallel-Axis E-Axle Coaxial E-Axle Vertical-axis E-Axle Distributed Drive Systems  Wheel-End Drive Wheel-Hub Drive Each system offers unique advantages, and we’ll explore them in more detail below. But first, let’s look at some broader trends driving innovation in e-powertrain systems. 2. Key Trends in E-Powertrain Systems 2.1 Increasing Integration of E-Powertrain Systems More and more, motors, gearboxes, controllers, and other key components are being integrated into compact units. This not only reduces weight and space but also improves overall system efficiency and reliability. For example, our 360 kW drive assembly integrates the motor and gearbox into a single unit, which optimizes the layout for heavy-duty trucks and saves valuable space. Similarly, our 360 kW electric axle for heavy commercial vehicles combines the drive system, transmission, braking, and other key components into a compact, efficient assembly. Brogen 360 kW drive assembly for 40-ton to 90-ton HCV Brogen 360 kW E-axle for 4×2/6×2/6×4/8×4 HCV 2.2 Adoption of Dual-Motor E-Powertrain Systems Dual-motor setups are becoming increasingly popular, especially in high-end and specialized trucks. These systems offer better power distribution, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced performance for heavy loads. Our dual-motor drive assembly is a prime example, delivering continuous power during demanding conditions, such as hill climbs, while maximizing operational efficiency. Brogen Dual-Motor Drive Assembly for 55-180T HCV Brogen Dual-Motor 360 kW E-axle for 4×2/6×2/6×4/8×4 HCV 3. Central Direct Drive Systems: A Cost-Effective E-Powertrain Solution Central Direct Drive System Architecture Central Direct Drive System Examples Central direct drive systems are primarily used to convert traditional fuel-powered trucks into electric vehicles. In this configuration, the engine is replaced with an electric motor, along with an electric drive unit (EDU), battery packs, and other key components. The original chassis remains largely unchanged, making this solution adaptable for a wide range of commercial vehicles. Pros: Cost-Effective & Quick to Market: This is the most economical and fastest way to electrify existing vehicle platforms without extensive redesigns. Ease of Conversion: Many manufacturers opt for this approach as it allows them to enter the EV market without the significant financial and time investments required for developing a new platform. Cons: Limited Battery Space: Since the original chassis isn’t significantly altered, space for battery packs is restricted, which limits driving range and affects battery cooling system layout. Compromised Handling & Comfort: Converted models often have poor weight distribution, leading to increased braking distances and reduced driving comfort. Central direct drive systems are commonly used in short-distance transportation scenarios, such as ports, steel mills, power plants, and mines. They are less suited for medium- or long-distance travel. 4. Electric Drive Axles: Optimizing Space & Efficiency In contrast, electric drive axles (e-axles) eliminate the need for a drive shaft, reducing vehicle weight and improving system efficiency. E-axles also allow for better space optimization for battery packs, increasing driving range and better overall efficiency. Among the different types of electric drive axles, three main configurations stand out: parallel-axis, coaxial, and vertical-axis. Each configuration offers distinct advantages and challenges, making them suitable for various vehicle types and operational needs. 4.1 Parallel-Axis E-Axle Parallel-Axis E-Axle System Architecture Brogen Parallel-Axis E-Axle The parallel-axis electric drive axle is currently the most widely adopted configuration for electric axles in the market. In this system, the motor is positioned parallel to the axle, and the motor, drive axle, and AMT are integrated into a single unit. This design eliminates the need for a drive shaft, reducing overall system weight and improving transmission efficiency. Additionally, this configuration uses helical gears, which significantly enhance reverse braking capability—from the typical 30% to an impressive 100%. By removing traditional components such as the universal drive shaft, reducer, and suspension brackets, installation costs are significantly reduced compared to central direct drive systems. This compact design also saves weight and space, allowing for better battery placement and increased driving range. However, there are drawbacks. The large unsprung weight of the system, combined with its offset configuration, can negatively impact the vehicle’s handling, especially in heavy-duty applications. 4.2 Coaxial Electric Drive Axle Coaxial Electric Drive Axle Architecture Brogen Coaxial E-Axle The coaxial electric drive axle features a motor aligned directly with the axle housing. This configuration creates a more compact and concentrated power system, which optimizes the vehicle’s overall chassis layout. Due to its efficient space utilization, coaxial e-axles are ideal for smaller commercial vehicles like light vans and trucks weighing under 4.5 tons. However, their compact nature and lower power density make them unsuitable for heavy-duty vehicles, which require more robust power systems. 4.3 Vertical Axis Electric Drive Axle Vertical Axis Electric Drive Axle Architecture In the vertical axis electric drive axle, the motor is connected to the drive axle at a perpendicular angle. This setup offers some key advantages, such as lower installation costs and the efficient use of longitudinal space, which allows for better battery pack arrangement. Despite these benefits, there are significant trade-offs. The vertical axis design has lower transmission efficiency compared to parallel-axis e-axles, and its system power density is not as high. Additionally, the use of hypoid gears for speed reduction results in a smaller speed ratio and poorer performance in NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness). As a result, this configuration is more commonly used in medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. 5. Distributed Drive Systems As electric vehicles continue to evolve, distributed drive systems are emerging as a powerful alternative to traditional powertrains. Distributed drive systems can be divided into two main types: wheel-end drive and wheel-hub drive. Each of these technologies offers distinct advantages, as well as unique challenges,