Danfoss, a global engineering leader, is taking significant strides in decarbonizing supply chains through electric vehicles (EVs). The company operates eight fully electric trucks in Denmark, which transport goods between its production and logistics sites. In partnership with Volvo, Danfoss aims to showcase how technology can facilitate this decarbonization effort, reflecting its commitment to becoming the preferred partner for its customers regarding sustainability. Torben Christensen, Danfoss’ Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasizes that establishing a strong position in sustainability is vital for earning customer loyalty and respect in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Central to the operation of these electric trucks is the onboard charger, a critical component that manages battery charging. Situated within Danfoss’ factory in Nordborg, Denmark, these onboard chargers are key to ensuring efficient energy conversion. Most public and residential charging setups deliver alternating current (AC) electricity, while EV batteries require direct current (DC) for effective energy storage. The onboard charger acts as the intermediary in this conversion, making it possible for these electric trucks to utilize available AC sources without relying solely on external DC fast chargers, which are less prevalent and costly to deploy.
Importantly, the onboard chargers developed by Danfoss Editron are specifically tailored for heavy-duty electric vehicles, such as trucks and buses, which necessitate higher energy requirements and rapid charging capabilities. While standard passenger EVs typically use chargers offering between 7.2 to 22 kW, Danfoss’ onboard charger is capable of providing up to 44 kW. This significant increase is crucial not only for the demanding energy needs of larger vehicles but also for allowing quick recharge times, which are essential for maintaining operational efficiency during short breaks in the truck’s service schedule.
The operational efficiency of these trucks is maximized as they can charge while loading and unloading cargo, a process which generally lasts around 15 minutes. This innovative charging solution allows the trucks to maintain continuous service throughout operational hours. On weekends, when the trucks are not in use, they undergo longer overnight charging sessions, ensuring they are ready for the coming week. Additionally, the onboard charger provides power to auxiliary machinery connected to the trucks, such as cranes or loaders, further enhancing their utility in industrial applications.
Danfoss is addressing the environmental impact of heavy-duty vehicles, which account for 25 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in EU road transport. The company’s electric truck fleet has seen a remarkable increase, with electric truck sales in Europe nearly tripling in 2023, indicating a growing shift towards electric solutions in logistics. In Denmark, Danfoss has reported a 10 to 15 percent reduction in its greenhouse gas emissions, translating to approximately 250,000 liters of diesel saved annually. This commitment aligns with broader efforts to transition towards more sustainable transport solutions and demonstrates Danfoss’s leadership role in the field of electrification within the heavy vehicle sector.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Danfoss and Volvo not only drives forward the use of electric trucks in supply chains but also highlights the critical role that advanced technologies, such as onboard chargers, play in this transition. As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, the focus on rapid charging capabilities, efficient energy management, and reduced emissions will continue to be pivotal. The success of these electric trucks in Denmark serves as a blueprint for future decarbonization efforts and illustrates the potential impact that strategic partnerships and innovative engineering can have on achieving sustainability in logistics and transportation.
