Truck & Off-highway Engineering - June 2024

Overview

The June 2024 issue of Truck & Off-Highway Engineering presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and trends in the off-highway vehicle sector, particularly focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and their unique thermal management needs. This edition highlights the evolution of thermal management systems for off-highway EVs, showcasing how these systems have significantly advanced from the technologies used in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles just five years ago.

Key Highlights:

1. Thermal Management for Off-Highway EVs: The issue features insights from Modine executives who discuss the critical importance of thermal management systems tailored for off-highway electric vehicles. These systems are essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures, ensuring efficiency, and enhancing the performance of electric drivetrains in challenging environments.

2. Product Showcase: The magazine includes a product showcase that highlights innovative solutions in the industry. Notably, Modine engineers have designed a distributed thermal management system that maximizes flexibility in component placement within compact loaders, a project in collaboration with Bosch Rexroth. This showcases the integration of advanced engineering solutions in the electrification of heavy machinery.

3. Executive Viewpoints: The issue features executive viewpoints from various industry leaders. Hexagon Agility expresses optimism about the growth of compressed natural gas (CNG) in long-haul trucking, particularly with the introduction of the Cummins X15N engine. Additionally, Volvo Trucks outlines its ambitious path toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing the role of innovative technologies in reaching sustainability goals.

4. Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI): A significant focus of this issue is on the development of human-machine interfaces (HMI) in modern commercial and industrial vehicles. The complexity of new safety and infotainment features presents challenges for drivers, necessitating a thorough evaluation of HMI systems. The magazine discusses how companies like iMotions are employing AI and neuroscience to enhance the design and assessment of these interfaces, aiming to reduce cognitive load and driver distraction.

5. Active Safety Systems: The advancement of active safety systems is another critical topic covered in this issue. The magazine discusses how cloud simulation technologies are being utilized to assist in the development of active safety features for electric refuse trucks, highlighting the intersection of simulation technology and vehicle safety.

6. Sustainability Initiatives: The issue also addresses broader sustainability initiatives within the industry. PFG’s template for going green involves collaboration with multiple partners, showcasing a collective approach to reducing environmental impact. This aligns with the ongoing trend of integrating sustainable practices into vehicle design and manufacturing processes.

7. Innovative Design Contest: The magazine promotes the "Create the Future Design Contest," inviting innovators to share their creative visions for a chance to win ,000 in prizes. This contest aims to connect participants with industry leaders who can help turn their designs into reality, fostering innovation in engineering and design.

8. Technical Innovations: The issue features several technical innovations, including Volvo Trucks' choice of nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA) battery chemistry for its electric vehicles, which is crucial for enhancing battery performance and longevity. Additionally, advancements in electronic torque limiting are discussed, which can significantly boost machine productivity in various applications.

9. Future of Mobility Engineering: The magazine concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the future of mobility engineering, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in the face of evolving technologies and market demands. The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI and cloud computing, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of off-highway vehicles.

Conclusion:

The June 2024 issue of Truck & Off-Highway Engineering serves as a vital resource for industry professionals, providing insights into the latest trends, technologies, and challenges facing the off-highway vehicle sector. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and the integration of advanced technologies, this edition highlights the ongoing transformation within the industry as it moves toward a more electrified and efficient future. Readers are encouraged to engage with the content, explore new ideas, and participate in initiatives that drive the industry forward.