In 2023, a major European logistics company faced mounting pressure: rising fuel costs, tightening emissions regulations, and the need to modernize its fleet. With 50 4×2 diesel tractors handling regional deliveries (300-400km daily routes), the team sought a solution that would balance sustainability, reliability, and operational practicality. Their breakthrough? Transitioning to electric trucks equipped with TRION's EA5000N distributed drive axle-a move that redefined their approach to commercial mobility.
Here's how the transition unfolded:
The Challenge: Balancing Performance and Practicality
The fleet's diesel trucks were reliable but costly to operate. High fuel expenses, frequent transmission maintenance, and limited flexibility in adapting to low-emission zones were becoming unsustainable. The team needed an electric alternative that could match the diesel trucks' daily range, payload capacity, and durability-without sacrificing operational efficiency.
The Solution: Electric Trucks with E Axles
After evaluating multiple electric drivetrain options, the fleet selected 20 electric trucks paired with TRION's truck e axle-the EA5000N. Its design addressed their core needs:
Weight optimization: A 300kg reduction compared to traditional central drives freed up space for larger battery packs, ensuring the trucks could cover daily routes without mid-shift charging.
Integrated efficiency: The dual-motor design and advanced gear-shifting control minimized energy loss, a critical factor for extending range in regional transit.
Simplified maintenance: By eliminating bulky transmissions and reducing moving parts, the e axle reduced the need for frequent service-key for keeping trucks on the road.
Why E Axles Made the Transition Possible
Diesel trucks rely on complex drivetrains with hundreds of components, each prone to wear and inefficiency. The e axle system streamlined this by integrating motors, gearing, and controls into a single, compact unit. This design not only reduced energy waste but also simplified the vehicle's overall architecture, making it easier to integrate with the fleet's existing maintenance workflows and operational protocols.
For the logistics team, the transition wasn't just about adopting new technology-it was about future-proofing their operations. "We needed a solution that could grow with us," noted the fleet manager. "The e axle's modular design and adaptability meant we could scale electric adoption without overhauling our entire fleet overnight."
Could This Work for Your Fleet?
This fleet's experience highlights how electric axles for trucks are making commercial electrification feasible for real-world operations. By addressing range, payload, and maintenance concerns, e axles are no longer a niche option but a practical choice for fleets aiming to modernize.
Explore how TRION's electric drive axle solutions can support your fleet's transition to electric mobility.