Allison Transmission presented for the North-American market the new ABE Series, an e-axle powertrain system for ultra-low floor electric bus. Allison unveiled the new e-axle at the Advanced Clean Technology Expo in Long Beach, California.
The ABE Series integrates dual electric motors, a single- or multi-speed gearbox (depending on e-axle model), oil coolers, pumps and power electronics into a bolt-in system that replaces the entire traditional powertrain within the existing frame. It meets the power and space demands of the transit bus industry, including heavy double-decker, articulated and 3-door buses.
“We have a long history with electric hybrid solutions and full electrification is the next evolution,” David S. Graziosi, Allison Transmission president and CEO, said.
The ABE-system can handle 100 percent torque in regenerative braking. The axle has a rating up to 28,660 pounds (13 tons). With a dual motor, it has continuous axle output power of 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and peak output power of 738 horsepower (550 kilowatts). A single speed e-axle option also is available. Its proprietary cooling allows the vehicle to run closer to peak power for longer durations.
Allison said that the bolt-in ABE Series fits existing bus frames and suspensions. The standard system is configured for a 28-inch (700-millimeter) walk through, but also has an optional 39-inch (1,000-millimeter) configuration. This makes the system applicable for 12-meter low-floor city and double-decker buses, 18-meter articulated buses and 3-door buses.
This release originally appeared on the busworld website. You can view it here.