Equipmake launches new generation motor for heavy duty vehicles, doubling continuous power

Equipmake unveiled the new version of its commercial vehicles’ motor HTM-3500: it boasts the same peak figures of 3500 Nm and 400 kW as before, but continuous power has been doubled, from 100kW to 200kW at 2500rpm, the supplier states.

The new product was displayed at Cenex Expo 2024, held at UTAC Millbrook.

Equipamek new electric bus and truck motor

Playing a role in the segment of bus conversion from diesel to electric, Equipmake’s Zero Emissions Drivetrain (ZED) features Equipmake’s HTM-3500 motor, its inverter, and power electronics, combined with the latest lithium-ion batteries. The company also carries out conversions of existing vehicles such as fire trucks with REV Group in the US and Emergency One in the UK, alongside various airside logistical vehicles at airports.

For instance, Equipmake has already been tasked so far to repower Optare buses and double-decker vehicles for sightseeing operations. And in July 2024 the company announced it is ready to repower Wrightbus Streetdeck buses with modular drivetrain and 436 kWh battery.

Now, the new generation e-motor is still direct drive, seamlessly integrating to the propshaft and existing axle without the need for a separate transmission.

Over the last two years, Equipmake, that states it has more than doubled its revenue over that time window, has rapidly signed multiple contracts with major brands, strategic partnerships including an agreement with Perkins, a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc, to develop a bespoke, heavy-duty hybrid electric system, featuring its high torque density electric motor and inverter technologies, and establish initial production capability. Equipmake also has an agreement in place to license certain products from its range of electric drive motors, inverter, and electric powertrain technology to Sona Comstar – a global automotive systems and components manufacturer, headquartered in India – for applications in electric cars, buses, commercial vehicles and off-road vehicles in India, Thailand and other select South Asian countries.

Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake said: “I am delighted to hit another major milestone in Equipmake’s e-technology journey. Our upgraded, heavy-duty HTM-3500 motor sets new standards and is another example of how our proprietary e-propulsion product range is rapidly evolving. By doubling its continuous power, our new HTM-3500 enables electric buses, coaches, electric trucks and other heavy vehicles to operate with greater real-world performance and efficiency during their regular duty cycles. Heavy-duty vehicle electrification is happening at pace and our sector-leading e-propulsion technology is accelerating the transition from ICE to ZEVs in multiple markets, from buses to trucks to off-highway vehicles. Demand is soaring as we continue to partner with many of the world’s leading OEMs, building our reputation for electric powertrain innovation and product excellence on the global stage.”