Vehicle electrification does not always have to mean range anxiety and expensive charging systems.
As Eaton reminded Commercial Carrier Journal this week, mild hybridization through a 48-volt system can reduce emissions and save fuel while avoiding the higher costs of going all-electric along with the additional challenges of range anxiety and hunting for the next EV charger.
Carl Smith, commercial manager of sales, inside sales and applications engineering at Eaton, also pointed out that a 48-volt system doesn’t require costly lithium-ion batteries. Lead acid batteries, whether absorbed glass mat, traditional flooded or deep cell can be used to power accessories like fuel-thirsty air conditioning, power steering, lift systems, etc. on a broad range of hardworking vehicles including Class 8 long-haul tractors.
“We’re seeing a tremendous amount of interest [in 48 volt systems],” said Smith.
[Related: TMC panel discusses merits, challenges of 48-volt hybrid]
To help fleets transition to 48 volts, Eaton introduced low-voltage power components this week for both commercial and off-highway vehicles. However, it’s best to let OEMs and suppliers handle the conversion.
“It's going to have to be OEM and supplier driven,” said Smith, who led a Technology and Maintenance Council panel on 48-volt systems. “What I mean by that is in my opinion the OEMs and suppliers have to pull together to develop systems that work together as an integrated system on the vehicle because you've got starters, alternators, battery banks, cables, etc.
