Danfoss’ Onboard Charger to Boost Electrification of Heavy-Duty Trucks in Europe

Revolutionary Onboard Charger for Electric Trucks
Danfoss, a global engineering leader, has developed an innovative onboard charger that is set to play a pivotal role in decarbonizing the heavy-duty transport sector. This charger, the size of a large suitcase, is currently used in a fleet of eight fully electric trucks in Denmark. These trucks are vital for Danfoss’ efforts to decarbonize its supply chain and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By partnering with Volvo, Danfoss aims to demonstrate how the technology can accelerate the electrification of large trucks across Europe.

Challenges in Electrifying Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Electrifying large trucks—ranging from 6 meters in length to 3 meters in height—presents significant challenges due to their substantial energy demands. Unlike passenger electric vehicles (EVs), heavy-duty trucks require fast charging during brief stops to maintain operational efficiency. Danfoss’ onboard charger has been designed specifically for these high-power needs. It enables trucks to charge at up to 44 kW, much higher than the 7.2 to 22 kW typically seen in passenger EVs.

This high-powered onboard charger ensures that trucks can continue their operations with minimal downtime. For instance, they can charge during loading and unloading, a process that takes around 15 minutes. This allows trucks to remain operational around the clock, with only longer overnight charges required during off-peak hours.

Danfoss’ Commitment to Sustainability and Emission Reduction
Danfoss has made a strong commitment to sustainability, aiming to position itself as the preferred partner in decarbonization for its customers. Through its electric truck fleet, which is currently operational in Denmark, Danfoss has already achieved a significant reduction in emissions. The fleet’s use of electric trucks has led to a 10-15% reduction in emissions, saving around 250,000 liters of diesel per year.

The company’s goal is to demonstrate that decarbonizing supply chains with electric trucks is both feasible and efficient. By deploying these trucks and charging solutions, Danfoss is contributing to reducing emissions in the European transport sector, which accounts for 25% of the region’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Growing Demand for Electric Trucks in Europe
The demand for electric trucks in Europe has surged, with sales nearly tripling in 2023. This growth is indicative of the increasing shift toward sustainable transport solutions in the region. Electric trucks now account for over 1.5% of total truck sales in Europe, with expectations for further expansion in the coming years.

Danfoss’ onboard charger is at the heart of this transformation, helping manufacturers meet the energy demands of heavy-duty electric vehicles while advancing the industry’s push toward sustainability.