Volvo Trucks introduces a new, patented safety feature for electric trucks: Active Grip Control. This new technology improves stability, acceleration and braking in slippery conditions. Thanks to the quick response of the electric motors, the force between the wheels and the road can be checked in an instant to proactively prevent wheel spin. The feature improves acceleration in slippery conditions. Tests conducted with the Volvo FH Electric on a slippery road with a loaded trailer showed a 45% improvement at full acceleration.
“The improvement when going up a slippery dirt road is really impressive. I believe this will increase productivity, not least for transport companies in the construction segment.”
If the truck begins to skid, multiple sensors make the vehicle's steering system respond to road conditions and use the vehicle's electric motors, along with other actuators, to help the driver stay on the road. The new feature is also designed to reduce the risk of shearing and oversteer on empty runs.
“With Active Grip Control, we give our drivers even more options to drive over difficult roads and surfaces, even under the most challenging conditions. This is a unique feature protected by the Volvo Group through patents.”
Improvements can also be seen in braking, as the function can be used for controlled regenerative braking without activating ABS. This increases efficiency as more time is spent on regeneration, allowing for a smoother braking experience. The Active Grip Control function will be available on the Volvo FH, Volvo FM and Volvo FMX Electric, which are used for regional transport and construction work. A similar function will also be available on trucks with a diesel or (bio-)LNG powertrain, according to Volvo Trucks Netherlands.
Photo above and below: Volvo Trucks image bank.
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