Heavy Duty Diesel Engine News | Engine + Powertrain Technology

New joint venture to advance agricultural machinery in China

Zahra Awan — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:48:38 +0000

ZF and XCMG Construction Machinery have signed a joint venture agreement to strengthen their collaboration in the agricultural machinery sector. The new company, ZF (Xuzhou) Machinery, will be headquartered in the Xuzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone in Jiangsu Province, China.

The joint venture will focus on the production of advanced powershift driveline systems for agricultural machinery, and will combine global technology standards with tailored solutions that address the specific requirements of the Chinese market.

The partners plan to develop innovative components and system solutions that support the modernization of agricultural machinery in China while also enhancing their competitiveness in international markets.

“With this joint venture, we are taking the next step by expanding the local production of advanced powershift technology, a key enabler for the next generation of high-performance agricultural machinery,” said Andreas Moser, a member of the ZF board of management.

Yang Dongsheng, the chairman and party secretary of XCMG Group and XCMG Machinery, emphasized the transformation currently underway in China’s agricultural machinery sector: “The industry is evolving toward larger-scale, higher-end products and greater intelligence. Tractor powershift technology is at a key stage of rapid development. By combining XCMG’s strengths in high-end agricultural machinery with ZF’s technological expertise, we aim to jointly produce globally competitive solutions and strengthen China’s agricultural equipment industry.”

Volvo Trucks expands future mobility strategy with multifuel combustion engine platforms

Zahra Awan — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:40:11 +0000

Two 13-liter engines compatible with renewable diesel and gas fuel, including future hydrogen applications, have been introduced to the market. Both are based on Volvo Trucks‘ latest in-house-developed engine platform.

The combustion engine remains an important part of the company’s driveline strategy, and Volvo says its new engine range is designed to deliver increased power, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and noise levels, and enhanced driveability. The engine platform is ready for alternative fuels such as biodiesel/B100, HVO, biogas/bio-LNG and green hydrogen.

The D13 engine will offer 380-560hp of power and 1,800-2,900Nm of torque. It can reportedly deliver up to 4% lower fuel consumption than the D13 eSCR engine it replaces. This is based on simulations of a 500hp Volvo FH 42 T with a GCW of 35 metric tons.

The second 13-liter engine, the G13, offers 420-500hp and 2,400-2,800Nm of torque.

“Not only are these all-new engines our most fuel-efficient powertrains ever, but they will also take our combustion engine into the future,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks. “The flexibility and readiness for all existing diesel and gas fuels – but also future hydrogen applications – mean that we can offer efficient trucks with the possibility of net zero emissions to all our customers globally.”

According to Volvo, the new platform comes with refined engine brake functionality for increased driveability, along with new cylinder and turbo designs and an updated version of the company’s I-Shift transmission. The diesel and gas versions will both reportedly offer significantly higher levels of torque.

Many variants of the diesel version of the new engine are compatible with Volvo Trucks’ I-Roll with engine stop/start functionality, enabling drivers to save fuel by turning off the engine and rolling downhill.

TraXon 2 hybrid demonstrates emissions reduction potential for heavy commercial vehicles

Zahra Awan — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:45:41 +0000

ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) has completed a dedicated testing event for the TraXon 2 Hybrid, its next-generation hybrid transmission for heavy commercial vehicles. The system demonstrated its potential to reduce emissions while maintaining operational flexibility, meeting the practical needs of logistics companies.

“TraXon 2 Hybrid delivers a clear advantage for high‑mileage operations by substantially reducing CO2 emissions while maintaining cost efficiency,” said Christian Feldhaus, vice president of transmissions and hybrids at ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions. “Based on our ongoing discussions with vehicle manufacturers, fleet operators and industry bodies, we see hybrid technologies providing a clear and practical pathway toward significant emissions reduction in future heavy‑duty transport.”

Emissions-saving technology

The TraXon 2 Hybrid builds on the all-electric TraXon 2 platform. The hybrid system enables electric-only driving in urban zones while retaining combustion operation for long-distance transportation.

ZF test evaluations confirmed that the system supports substantial CO2 reductions in long-haul and distribution applications when operated with consistent recharging. The PHEV system can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 47% in long-haul transportation and up to 73% in distribution transportation. This supports the European fleet emissions targets for 2030 and provides flexibility for future toll and tax regulations.

The TraXon 2 Hybrid builds on ZF’s e-mobility platform, which includes electric central drives such as CeTrax 2 and AxTrax 2 e-axles, and supports applications where full electrification is not yet practical across all routes. For fleets with limited investment capacity, it also enables a gradual transition to electrification, including operational, dispatch and charging adjustments.

The hybrid platform integrates an in-house-developed electric motor and operates at 600-800V, with 190kW continuous power and higher peak output. Positioned in a P2 layout between the clutch and transmission, the electric motor enables pure electric driving up to 12th gear and supports regenerative braking for improved efficiency. The combustion engine operates according to the vehicle’s driving strategy and provides range for long-haul applications. The system is designed to improve overall efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions while retaining the range and refueling flexibility of a combustion engine. It can be combined with diesel, HVO/e-fuels, CNG/LPG and hydrogen combustion engines.

Volvo begins on-road testing of hydrogen ICE heavy trucks

Zahra Awan — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:19:50 +0000

Volvo Trucks has begun on-road testing of heavy trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines en route to the planned commercial launch of its hydrogen solution by 2030.

The hydrogen-powered trucks use high-pressure, direct injection (HPDI) technology, which the company says improves energy efficiency, reduces fuel consumption and increases engine power compared with conventional hydrogen combustion engines. HPDI works by injecting a small amount of ignition fuel at high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added. Volvo already uses this technology in its gas-powered trucks, with over 10,000 units sold worldwide.

The hydrogen engine technology is derived from its diesel powertrain, delivering “diesel-like performance” while substantially cutting CO₂ emissions, the auto maker said.

“On-road testing is an important milestone for our hydrogen combustion engine trucks. I feel confident that they will be the best in the industry if you look at fuel efficiency, power, torque and drivability,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks. “Customers will be able to operate them just like diesel trucks. Our experience with HPDI technology in more than 10,000 gas-powered trucks is strong proof of its performance.”

Hydrogen combustion engine trucks will be especially suitable over longer distances and in regions where there is limited charging infrastructure or time for the recharging of battery-electric trucks.

Volvo trucks with combustion engines powered by green hydrogen have the potential to deliver net-zero CO₂ well-to-wheel when using renewable HVO as ignition fuel. They are categorized as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) under the agreed EU CO₂ emission standards.

The hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will complement the company’s offering of other alternatives, such as battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks and trucks that run on renewable fuels, like biogas and HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil).

“We see great potential for hydrogen combustion engine trucks and they will have a role to play in the transformation to zero-emission transport,” said Hjelmgren. “Several technologies will be needed to decarbonize. As a global truck manufacturer we offer a variety of decarbonization solutions and help our customers choose the best alternative based on transport assignment, available infrastructure and green energy prices.”

Hyundai’s Xcient Fuel Cell trucks hit mileage milestone

Zahra Awan — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:35:30 +0000

Hyundai Motor Company’s Xcient Fuel Cell Class-8 truck fleet has logged 20,000,000km across Europe. Over five years, 165 trucks have operated in Switzerland, Germany, France, the Netherlands and Austria, highlighting the potential of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in commercial transportation.

“Hyundai Motor is reducing carbon emissions by working with global partners to deploy hydrogen fuel cell trucks across various sectors such as logistics, distribution and urban public operations,” said Chul Youn Park, head of the global commercial vehicle and light commercial vehicle business division at Hyundai Motor Company. “Starting with our initial operations in Switzerland, we have expanded our presence across multiple regions in Europe while achieving visible progress in North America as well. Our hydrogen commercial vehicles continue to demonstrate their value as mobility solutions for a more advanced future, helping build the hydrogen ecosystem and expanding their global impact.”

Hydrogen mobility

First launched in Switzerland in October 2020, Xcient Fuel Cell trucks initially reached 10,000,000km of cumulative driving distance in the country by June 2024. The trucks’ consistent performance has spurred expansion into new regions and a growing range of applications, including food and beverage logistics, supermarket distribution and specialized vehicle types such as refuse and crane trucks.

Compared with a fleet of conventional diesel trucks, which would emit around 13,000 tons of CO2 over 20,000,000km, Hyundai’s Xcient Fuel Cell trucks achieve a substantial reduction in carbon emissions – roughly equivalent to the annual CO2 absorption of 1.5 million pine trees.

Hyundai Motor launched the new Xcient Fuel Cell truck in 2025, with an upgraded hydrogen fuel cell system. The vehicle has undergone rigorous testing since 2021, ensuring its suitability across a range of climates and use cases. This testing, combined with continuous collaboration with fleet operators, has ensured the vehicle meets various customer driving needs.

DAF launches electric trucks with long-range LFP batteries and modular powertrains

Zahra Awan — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:00:01 +0000

DAF is expanding its series of electric vehicles with the XG and XG⁺ Electric. They share the same DNA as the XD and XF Electric.

The XG and XG+ Electric are driven by the Paccar EX-D2 electric motor, with outputs from 270 to 350kW (370 to 480hp) and a torque of 2,400Nm. The compact powertrain unit consists of two separate electric engines combined with an integrated transmission with three gears that delivers smooth gear shifting and supreme comfort.

The DAF XG and XG⁺ Electric can be fitted with three, four or five battery packs, with modular positioning on the chassis, depending on the vehicle’s application. The 5-battery option offers up to over 500 zero-emission kilometers on a single charge. With optimized vehicle and charging planning, the XG and XG⁺ Electric can travel over 1,000km per day on a full electric charge, making them suitable for international operations.

DAF’s XG and XG⁺ Electric trucks feature next-generation LFP batteries with an eight-year warranty. Cobalt and nickel-free, these batteries offer high thermal stability and can be charged to 100% daily without reducing durability. A 3-battery configuration can charge from 10% to 80% in just over 45 minutes.

International’s S13 Integrated Powertrain achieves EPA 2027 compliance

Zahra Awan — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:24:04 +0000

International Motors has announced that its 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain meets the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emissions requirements for 2027 model year trucks. Developed from a clean sheet design back in 2017, the 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain was designed to meet regulatory requirements while continuing to deliver simplicity, performance and reliability.

The 2027 S13 retains over 90% of its hardware from the current platform, supporting continuity in service tools, parts availability and technician training.

“We’ve been preparing for EPA 2027 for years. Our customers won’t face surprises, only the same proven powertrain,” said Dan Kayser, executive vice president, commercial operations, International. “Our customers get a reliable solution without unnecessary complexity.”

According to the company, customers can expect fuel economy, driving performance and powertrain weight comparable to the current S13 Integrated Powertrain.

The powertrain has a compact, efficient design that meets nitrogen-oxide (NOx) regulations. Fleets across North America have logged more than 700 million miles with the powertrain – demonstrating fuel efficiency, service solutions, reliability and drivability.

The 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain builds on a proven foundation while introducing targeted updates. The S13 engine retains its core design, including a fixed-geometry turbocharger, dual overhead cam layout, 23:1 compression ratio and established aftertreatment system, maintaining existing packaging and service intervals.

New additions for 2027 include variable valve timing to support variable valve braking, a closed crankcase breather and an oil centrifuge. The T14 transmission continues as a compact 14-speed unit with a planetary gearset, integrated PTO options and advanced lubrication, while gaining a 24V transmission control module with predictive shifting based on GPS and topography data. A standardized 24V electrical architecture has also been introduced across the powertrain to reduce complexity and improve cold-start performance and durability, while the cab and chassis systems remain 12V.

Horse Powertrain supplies range-extender for Scania electric timber truck pilot

Zahra Awan — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:50:44 +0000

Horse Powertrain has been selected by Scania to provide its advanced range-extender system for the electric pilot vehicle in a new trial, with the vehicle currently operating as a heavy-duty timber truck in Sweden. The trial is part of the Scania Pilot Partner program and is being operated in Sweden under SCA, one of Europe’s largest forestry companies.

The vehicle is built to handle Sweden’s most demanding timber routes, transporting heavy loads through steep and remote terrain where access to charging infrastructure remains scarce. By combining a powerful battery-electric drivetrain with the generator designed in Sweden by Horse Powertrain’s division Aurobay Technologies, the truck achieves both long-distance capability and reduced CO₂ emissions.

The test route covers approximately 16km, with an operational target of completing seven-to-eight rounds per day – comparable to a diesel truck and delivering slightly higher productivity than a pure battery-electric truck due to avoided charging downtime.

The configuration supports the truck’s battery packs with a 120kW range-extender unit based on Horse Powertrain’s 2.0-liter high-efficiency multi-fuel engine. Acting purely as an onboard charger, the unit supplies electric energy when required – such as during long hauls, temperature extremes or unexpected delays.

Matias Giannini, CEO at Horse Powertrain, said, “Forestry logistics represents one of the toughest challenges for electrification. The forest roads of northern Sweden demand strength, range and reliability. Charging stations are few, but the timber never waits. You can think of our range-extender as a powerbank for a heavy-duty truck: silent, efficient and always there when you need it. By partnering with Scania and drawing on our engineering excellence, we’re proving how a compact, high-efficiency range-extender enables electric trucks to operate reliably in the most demanding environments. It’s a technology that cuts CO₂ now.”

Tony Sandberg, vice president at Scania Pilot Partner, added, “What we’re doing in Sweden with Horse Powertrain and SCA builds directly on the 100-day trial we ran together with a logistics partner in Germany earlier this year. That vehicle logged almost 22,000km and drove more than 90% of the time on pure electric power, only using the range-extender when no charging was available. The result was a CO₂ reduction of over 90% compared with a diesel truck. Those learnings give us a strong foundation as we tailor the system for demanding Nordic timber operations.”

Ingo Scholten, chief technology officer at Horse Powertrain and managing director Sweden, Aurobay Technologies division, said, “Electrifying heavy-duty routes means understanding what drivers and operators face hour by hour. Long stretches without charging, variable loads and rapidly changing weather. This pilot lets us study those realities directly in day-to-day timber operations. The range-extender’s role is simple. Provide a stable, efficient energy supply so drivers can complete their full shift without interruption and with far lower greenhouse-gas emissions than a traditional diesel truck. The data we gather here will guide how we refine the technology and scale it for wider use across demanding transport applications.”

Horse Powertrain’s modular range-extender architecture builds on the same core technology used in its passenger-car and light-commercial hybrid systems, adapted for the higher power output and durability demands of heavy-duty applications. Unlike conventional fixed-speed generator sets, the engine can operate across its full power band, enabling the system to deliver the required output efficiently while keeping fuel consumption, noise and vibration low.

The pilot truck is currently undergoing testing in regular operations, carrying full timber loads to gather performance and efficiency data in real-world conditions. The results will guide future deployments of electrified powertrains in the forestry sector and other heavy-duty applications.

APTI provides an in-depth look at Horse Powertrain’s first dedicated ICE unit for its C15 range extender in the January 2026 issue.

UKi Media & Events announces Vehicle Tech Week North America – a landmark automotive technology event in Novi, Michigan

Zahra Awan — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:51:02 +0000

Following the announcement last month of Vehicle Tech Week Europe, UKi Media & Events, part of CloserStill Media, has now unveiled a North American edition of this major new initiative to serve the global vehicle industry. Vehicle Tech Week North America will take place October 27-29, 2026, in Novi, Michigan, marking a significant evolution in how the company connects innovators, suppliers and OEMs across continents.

The initiative has been received with widespread enthusiasm across the automotive sector, with leading OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers and technology innovators citing a clear need for a focused platform that showcases emerging technologies and addresses the evolving challenges facing the industry.

Vehicle Tech Week North America will unite three of UKi Media & Events’ leading automotive technology exhibitions – Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo – under one roof at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.

While each show will maintain its unique identity, their co-location within Vehicle Tech Week North America will create a positive, collaborative environment that maximizes synergies and delivers greater value for exhibitors and attendees alike. This integrated format will facilitate stronger connections between world-class brands, OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, engineers, designers, investors and R&D teams.

“The automotive industry is undergoing unprecedented transformation, with technologies and disciplines converging at an accelerating pace,” said Peter Massey, commercial director at UKi Media & Events.

“Vehicle Tech Week North America reflects this reality, offering a unified platform where innovation thrives and partnerships flourish.”

The decision to bring these events together stems from the growing interdependence of testing, autonomy and interior design in modern vehicle development. By aligning these sectors, Vehicle Tech Week North America will provide a richer experience for participants and a more efficient return on investment for exhibitors.

Strategically located in Novi – just minutes from Detroit, the heart of North America’s automotive industry – Vehicle Tech Week North America offers unparalleled access to the region’s OEM headquarters, R&D centers and supplier networks.

Exhibitors and visitors will benefit from proximity to key decision-makers and technical teams, making it easier to forge partnerships, accelerate business opportunities and drive progress in a rapidly evolving market.

As well as serving the core automotive community, the event will actively engage adjacent markets such as off-highway, commercial transportation and defense, all of which are increasingly adopting advanced vehicle technologies. A targeted outreach campaign and new content streams will ensure these sectors are seamlessly integrated, creating fresh growth opportunities for exhibitors.

With 400+ exhibitors expected, Vehicle Tech Week North America will be the key destination for professionals seeking to explore innovative solutions, network with industry leaders and gain insights into the future of automotive technologies.

Industry leaders have commended the strategic vision behind the event, noting its potential to drive meaningful dialog and accelerate innovation across the automotive landscape.

Thorsten Oppermann, director of sales and marketing at dSPACE, commented, “dSPACE is excited to support the launch of Vehicle Tech Week in North America. Uniting Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo under one dynamic umbrella creates a powerful platform for innovation, collaboration and progress across the mobility sector. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders and showcasing how dSPACE continues to drive development in simulation and validation technologies for the vehicles of tomorrow.

“Detroit has always been a cornerstone of automotive innovation, and Vehicle Tech Week brings fresh energy to this legacy,” continued Oppermann. “The integrated format will foster deeper conversations and accelerate the pace of development across the industry. We’re proud to support this initiative and look forward to contributing to its success in North America.”

Francesca Favarò, head of safety best practices at Waymo, added, “Waymo is excited to see UKi Media & Events launch Vehicle Tech Week, bringing together the essential topics of autonomous technology, testing and interiors under one roof. The move recognizes the integrated nature of modern automotive development, and we believe will create powerful new synergies and strengthen the pace and value of innovation across the entire automotive sector.”

“We are delighted to see UKi Media & Events bringing together multiple automotive shows in North America under the umbrella of Vehicle Tech Week North America,” said Marius Dupuis, CEO at ASAM eV. “Combining Automotive Testing Expo, Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo and Automotive Interiors Expo reflects the industry’s holistic approach to various aspects of vehicle development. We expect Vehicle Tech Week North America to create a comprehensive platform, reflecting the full spectrum of innovation across the broader mobility landscape and enabling industry professionals to engage across disciplines.”

“Collaboration is key to developing next-gen mobility – a philosophy the Autotech Council lives by as we connect automotive leaders with startups,” commented Liz Kerton, Autotech Council’s executive director. “We’re delighted to collaborate with Vehicle Tech Week, because together we can build a stronger ecosystem for the automotive industry.”

For Automotive Testing Expo exhibitor inquiries:
David Hunt
david.hunt@ukimediaevents.com

For Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo exhibitor inquiries:
Darren Whitehead
darren.whitehead@ukimediaevents.com

For Automotive Interiors Expo exhibitor inquiries:
Aaron Dombey
aaron.dombey@ukimediaevents.com

For Vehicle Tech Week marketing inquiries:
Paul Connelly
paul.connelly@ukimediaevents.com