BPW drives electric mobility with ePower
BPW has explained how its ePower generator axle can achieve carbon-neutral refrigeration for trailers.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of refrigerated transport, where energy conservation and eco-friendly options are a necessity, BPW ePower emerges as a symbol of innovation and sustainability,” said the company.
“Unlike other systems that constantly engage the generator, contributing to increased emissions and fuel consumption, BPW ePower stands out as a smart solution designed to operate intelligently, optimising energy usage and minimising environmental impact.”
Developed in collaboration with temperature control specialist Thermo King, the BPW ePower’s dual generators enable it to double power output and reliability.
“However, what truly sets ePower apart is its intelligent energy management system, ensuring that the cooling system always has access to sufficient battery reserves without unnecessary engagement, thereby minimising fuel consumption and CO2 emissions,” said the company.
Developed by engineers at BPW, the system has been meticulously designed to adhere to automotive safety standards. It recovers energy when the trailer is moving, enabling a carbon-neutral and quiet supply of power to refrigeration units for temperature-controlled transportation.
Depending on the usage and equipment, it not only presents the opportunity to save up to 4,000 litres of fuel annually per trailer, says BPW, but also has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 10 tonnes per year per trailer.
“Unlike traditional systems that remain engaged throughout the journey, BPW ePower does not engage or carry current until the vehicle reaches 15 KmH,” the company continued.
“Operating similarly to a bike dynamo, ePower efficiently converts wheel rotation into energy and temporarily stores it in a backup battery before feeding it into the system as needed.
“The battery pack has two options: a Standard (19 KW) or an Extended (38 KW) Autonomy Pack. These were created with the help of telematics experts to ensure that drivers and fleet managers can get the best fit for their fleet. This way the kinetic energy typically lost by a trailer during transit is recycled efficiently.”
Equipped with intelligent smart power management, which controls the engagement and disengagement of the generators, ePower additionally reduces resistance on the tractor unit and offers real-time battery charge status to both the driver and fleet manager.
The settings for the system can be changed on demand via the BPW idem telematics Cargofleet portal, as well as Thermo King’s TracKing web portal and the TK Reefer app.
“Equipped with four generator modes, BPW ePower offers unparalleled versatility tailored to various driving situations,” added the firm.
“Different operating modes make sure that energy is managed intelligently and, therefore, that the system in question is ideally supplied with electricity as needed – even during longer journeys or in congested traffic conditions.”
In Active mode, the generator produces electrical energy depending on the power demand and driving situation. The Active Fast Charge mode enables electric energy to be continuously produced with full power until the battery is charged.
A Recuperation-Only mode means that the axle produces electrical energy only by recuperation (i.e. while braking), avoiding additional vehicle fuel consumption. Finally, in Passive mode, the axle generator will not produce electrical energy and remains on standby.
“In an era when climate change and environmental concerns are at the forefront of global challenges, BPW and Thermo King are taking a proactive approach. They recognise that there is a perpetual urgency when it comes to developing new sustainable products,” said BPW.
“Partnering with industry experts is speeding up its progress in bringing new solutions to the refrigeration industry and instigating change. BPW are committed to sustainability, and this partnership demonstrates their dedication to preserving the environment and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
