An eTrailer achieves a significant reduction in diesel consumption and CO2 emissions in a field test

Jul 05, 2023

posted by AJOT | Aug 22 2023 at 10:35 AM

The logistics specialist, Duvenbeck, and the technology innovator, Trailer Dynamics, have taken a major step towards enabling more sustainable goods traffic on roads. The diesel-powered tractor unit required more than 45 percent less fuel on a journey of 325 kilometres during a field test when used in combination with an eTrailer. In addition to the benefit of having lower operating costs, this represents a further milestone in reducing CO2 emissions when transporting goods.

“The test has demonstrated that the eTrailer technology not only helps reduce operating costs, but it can also make a significant contribution to greater sustainability in the logistics sector. Climate-friendly transport logistics is the goal of all those involved,” says Jörg Witt, the Head of Group Sales Duvenbeck Group, summarising the results.

The eTrailer, a product that Trailer Dynamics has been developing for many years, is equipped with an electrically-power middle axle and it was used in conjunction with a diesel-powered tractor unit during the field test. It took place in conjunction with Volkswagen Konzernlogistik GmbH & Co. OHG on a journey heading to the Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg. Duvenbeck needed to transport 11.9 tonnes of vehicle parts from its business site in Herne to Lower Saxony.

Bernd Reining, the Fleet Manager at Duvenbeck, has played a major role in this project through his extensive practical expertise and his profound understanding of the specific needs of an automobile logistics company.

By fitting an additional, functionally reliable, electric powertrain in the eTrailer, it is possible to achieve significant reductions in the consumption of diesel fuel and CO2 emissions in the diesel tractor unit and noteworthy increases in the battery electric vehicle’s range (BEV).