Advanced, high efficiency drive systems from Bonfiglioli

5073 Bonfiglioli is developing an array of advanced driveline solutions that will boost working efficiency for an array of off-highway machine types. The firm has developed a hybrid drive for aerial platforms, which allows the units to run in electric only mode for operation in confined spaces in car parks or for tunnel maintenance for example. A full electric drive system for an aerial platform will be offered in early 2019, although Bonfiglioli is not keen to disclose which manufacturer will introduce the unit.

The company is also working on a novel hybrid drive system for use with crushers. However Stefano Baldi, global sales director at the firm said, “It is difficult with high power. You need a big motor and a big battery.”

An important development for Bonfiglioli has been the recent purchase of the licence to further develop and manufacture the continuously variable transmissions (CVT) from CVTcorp. Baldi said that the CVTs can make major savings in fuel consumption as they allow engines to operate at optimum speeds. Bonfiglioli is already carrying out field trials of the first of these CVTs for off-highway machines as the firm is working on the project with two telehandler manufacturers at present.

A CVT drive for use in wheeled loaders will follow, although field trials will not commence until 2021 and this process will need to be completed before products are ready for market.