University of Kassel and Daimler Truck AG Collaborate on Electric Drive System for Commercial Vehicles

A research team from the University of Kassel, in partnership with Daimler Truck AG, is developing a specialized electric drive system for commercial vehicles, aiming to address current limitations in electrifying minibus and delivery van sectors.

The initiative, part of the project “Scale-E-Drive,” introduces a novel two-speed gearbox designed for energy-efficient operation and compatibility with existing electric passenger car drives.

While electric vehicles for cars and heavy-duty trucks have progressed, the University of Kassel highlights challenges in transitioning minibuses and delivery vehicles to electric options.

Existing electric van models, while available, often come with either high costs or limited battery capacity that restricts their practical use in commercial operations. High development costs also deter manufacturers from producing sector-specific electric vehicles.

The Scale-E-Drive project seeks to bridge this gap by making electric passenger car drives adaptable for commercial use. A new two-speed gearbox and innovative operating strategy were developed to address the torque and speed requirements unique to commercial vehicles without excessive increases in cost, volume, or weight. A dynamic shift strategy allows for smooth gear changes, while a predictive driving strategy optimizes energy efficiency based on real-time driving conditions.

Funded with €1.8 million by the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, the project recently showcased its technology on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, demonstrating the new transmission system’s capabilities.

Though the Sprinter line is manufactured by Mercedes-Benz Vans, the Kassel-Lohfelden plant—Daimler Truck’s global hub for commercial vehicle axles—serves as a natural partner for projects targeting scalable electric drive solutions across commercial vehicle categories.