AxleTech, a provider of specialty powertrain solutions, says it’s developing a heavy-duty e-powertrain system with Thor Trucks, a fleet-focused transportation lab building fully electric commercial trucks.
The companies plan to integrate AxleTech’s e-axle technology with Thor’s proprietary battery technology to create a fully electric commercial vehicle powertrain.
“Electric powertrains for on-highway use are rapidly advancing at a global scale, and AxleTech’s technology has kept pace with this evolution,” said Bill Gryzenia, CEO of AxleTech. “Due to the acute market need for these solutions, we are proud to work alongside Thor Trucks to build the most advanced integrated powertrain components for driveline electrification. Our team takes this role seriously, and is relentless in identifying and developing the next generation of electric powertrain systems.”
Thor, based in California, focuses on electrifying commercial fleets. Founded by fleet operators with industry experience, Thor builds fully electric trucks, including the battery, for medium-duty commercial applications. In July, Thor said it will partner with UPS to build and test two fully-electric delivery trucks in the Los Angeles area.
“Thor Tucks will benefit tremendously from AxleTech’s industry-leading powertrain expertise as we work to meet the market’s increasing demand for electrification,” said Giordano Sordoni, co-founder and COO of Thor Trucks.
“This partnership is a significant stride forward in our pursuit to transform the commercial transportation industry.”
AxleTech provides integrated solutions for on-highway electric vehicles, including Class 6, 7 and 8 trucks, as well as transit applications. The company established other strategic partnerships to develop customized, fully integrated electric powertrain systems.
Earlier this year, the company unveiled its next-generation electric independent suspension concept for high-mobility applications. AxleTech’s 5000 Series eISAS enhances performance and has the ability to improve stealth characteristics, lower heat signatures and improve fuel savings to logistics vehicles, tactical vehicles and armored personnel carriers.
AxleTech said it plans to launch its newest e-powertrain offering, recently named a 2019 Automotive News PACE Awards finalist, in January, 2019.
