John Deere Electronic Solutions (JDES) is pleased to announce the PD400 inverter as a key component in the Fuso eCanter fully electric truck.
The JDES PD400 is a rugged, off the shelf inverter that has been proven in use at John Deere and in other off-road OEM applications. The flexible PD400 software provides a broad set of features and tunings that allow the eCanter electric drive system to optimize efficiency and performance.
The eCanter requirements demanded very high peak torque under difficult operating conditions. In response, JDES completed a detailed drive cycle analysis that incorporated the thermal characteristics of the inverter. The result was a software upgrade that increased boost currents to 50% above previously rated limits for short periods of time all while maintaining reliability goals.
JDES resources were also utilized in the execution of ECE-R85 electric powertrain homologation testing. The traction motor, PD400 inverter, and the reference vehicle cooling system were assembled at JDES labs in Fargo, ND USA. The 30 minute power test and the net power test were witnessed by a third party to validate applicable torque and power claims for the eCanter.
“Working with Fuso on the global eCanter project is very exciting,” says David Gordon, Business Development Manager at JDES. “A cooperative nature and commitment to success is what we have in common.”
Lars Schroeter, Head of xEV Powertrain Systems for Fuso comments, “We sought out John Deere as an inverter supplier from their reputation for quality and integrity. After working with JDES we certainly see they deliver to this promise.”
