Hendrickson Introduces E-Drive Axle for Medium-Duty EVs

USA- Hendrickson USA L.L.C., a commercial vehicle component supplier, has introduced ELECTRAAX, a high-efficiency and lightweight electric drive axle powered by Driventic. The system is engineered for Class 6–7 school buses and medium-duty truck applications, including pickup-and-delivery, food and beverage distribution, and last-mile logistics.

ELECTRAAX features a fully integrated electric powertrain that combines the axle, single-speed gearbox, motor, and inverter into one compact system. This integrated design is developed to improve overall vehicle efficiency, reduce energy demand, and support extended driving range.

According to Hendrickson, the system can deliver up to 94% system-level efficiency based on internal testing. The lightweight fabricated axle housing also helps reduce system mass, supporting better payload balance, potential battery size optimization, and lower total cost of ownership for EV fleets.

The modular architecture allows flexibility across different vehicle platforms, with multiple options for track width, gear train, suspension, and braking systems. This makes ELECTRAAX suitable for a wide range of chassis layouts and fleet requirements.

Key Design Benefits

ELECTRAAX offers several advantages for electric commercial vehicles, including:

• Full motor torque regenerative braking to improve energy recovery
• Single-speed gearbox design to reduce friction, weight, and complexity
• Lightweight fabricated axle housing to support EV range and payload needs
• Modular configuration for different chassis and application requirements
• Smooth driving performance without shift-quality concerns

The system is purpose-built for medium-duty commercial EVs, especially school buses and urban delivery vehicles. These applications require strong efficiency, reliable performance, and careful weight management to meet daily route demands.

The single-speed gearbox helps deliver smooth operation in stop-and-go duty cycles, while Driventic’s electric drive system provides strong torque output for acceleration, hill climbs, and heavier load conditions.

ELECTRAAX has been co-engineered with Driventic, formerly Voith, combining Hendrickson’s long-standing expertise in commercial vehicle suspension and ride systems with Driventic’s electric-drive system experience.

The launch marks an important milestone for Hendrickson, as ELECTRAAX is both the company’s first drive axle and first electric axle. With this development, Hendrickson strengthens its position in electric commercial vehicle technology and supports the industry’s transition toward cleaner, more efficient mobility.

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