EV Platforms for Commercial Vehicles
Currently, the automotive industry is experiencing a once-in-a-century wave of innovation in technology that includes the inception of automatic driving systems and the electrification of vehicles.
Especially motor-powered EVs (electric vehicles), which curb environmental load and reduce the amount of the components from engine-powered and conventional cars, will see a decrease in cost and become available for most individuals at a reasonable price.
According to experts at Ree Auto, around 30% of all new cars will be EVs in 2024, and this percentage will hit 52% or more than that by 20230.
Regarding the year 2024 as the turning point of electric vehicles, some commercial car platforms focus on manufacturing and developing products, which contribute a lot to the electrification of cars.
What a Dedicated EV Platform Is
An EV platform is where components, like the suspension, drive unit, and body, are fitted into or built upon the platform. Hence, a dedicated EV platform is an underpinning made and designed for electric vehicles in mind alone.
In addition, dubbed ‘bespoke,’ ‘ground-up,’ or ‘skateboard’ EV architectures are designed to accommodate the large battery packs, drive units, and electronic management systems to yield many benefits for passengers and drivers.
Common EV Platforms
Governments of most countries focus on improving the quality of air index. They do this by providing benefits and incentives so as to motivate people to consider electric vehicles and other zero-emission cars.
These economic incentives are anticipated to play an important role when it comes to increasing the demand for EVs by bridging the pricing gap between ICE vehicles and EVs and encouraging the early use of charging infrastructures.
Implementation of different emission standards created by governments as well as other organizations, like EPA in North America, Bharat Stage Emission Regulations in India, and EURO 6 in the EU, is anticipated to improve EV platforms, like the following:
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Volkswagen Group MEB
The MEB platform is Volkswagen’s answer to the transformation from conventional cars to EVs. This platform is set to underpin several models from VW’s brands.
The platform has also received a huge investment from Volkswagen Group, with their first vehicle, the VW ID3, now making its way to dealers.
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Daimler AG
Daimler AG, the Mercedes-Benz owner, has an important role to play. This German automaker is among the biggest truck manufacturers globally. Five years ago, the automaker announced its all-electric 18-wheeler, referred to as the Freightliner eCascadia.
This truck was made to support regional haulage and port operations through a battery range of around 250 miles. In addition, the automaker also distributes another commercial truck, commonly known as Freightliner Em2 106 that achieves a 230-mile range and can be used for a local distribution network.
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Hyundai Group
This skateboard platform for Hyundai’s brand will underpin future electric vehicles for Hyundai KIA and Genesis, including the EV6 sports crossover and the new Ioniq 5.
It will also allow for both 800-volt and 400-volt fast charging as well as V2L functionality that enables it to send power back to the grid.
Conclusion!
As the auto industry continues to embrace electrification, stakeholders are continuously facing profitability difficulties. In order to address this issue, automakers must partner with competitors on EV platforms.