ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions division has recently unveiled a groundbreaking air compressor designed to improve the efficiency and operation of electrified commercial vehicles. Known as the e-comp Scroll, this innovative compressor is oil-free, low-noise, and minimises vibration, making it ideal for medium and heavy-duty hybrid, battery electric, and fuel cell trucks, buses, and coaches.
The e-comp Scroll made its public debut at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo in California, US, and at Auto Shanghai in China. Compressed air plays a crucial role in commercial vehicles, supporting essential systems such as air disc brakes, suspension, and other auxiliary functions, even as the industry transitions towards electrification.
In electric vehicles, the air compressor is traditionally powered by the combustion engine. However, the e-comp Scroll features its own integrated electric motor, providing a more efficient and quieter operation for electric vehicles. By using interlocking scrolls to compress air, the e-comp Scroll significantly reduces vibration and noise emissions, reaching approximately 67dB(A).
Paweł Porczyński, ZF CVS Chassis Solutions head of product Line, highlighted the benefits of the e-comp Scroll, stating, “By offering an oil-free, low-noise and low-vibration air compression system, we are addressing the technological challenges posed by zero-emission targets for electric vehicles. The innovative design of the e-comp Scroll ensures efficient air compression while significantly reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) through low maintenance resulting from elimination of oil lubrication.”
The e-comp Scroll can compress air up to 12.5 bar in a single stage, powered by an integrated electric motor. It also features variable speed operation to adjust to system demand, with an integrated inverter and liquid cooling shell to manage discharge temperature below 90°C.
In addition to the e-comp Scroll, ZF has also announced advancements in range extender technology for electric vehicles, with production expected to commence in 2026. These innovations reflect ZF’s commitment to driving the industry’s transformation towards zero-emission commercial vehicle mobility.
Overall, the introduction of the e-comp Scroll represents a significant step forward in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of electrified commercial vehicles, further solidifying ZF’s position as a leader in innovative automotive solutions.
