Skip to main content

Advanced, high efficiency drive systems from Bonfiglioli

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
November 29, 2018 Read time: 2 mins
Bonfiglioli is now developing advanced driveline solutions

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.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Danfoss develops smart pump for off-highway applications
    January 16, 2014
    Danfoss has completed its H1 range of sophisticated, high-power drives. The new 210/250cm3 piston pump closes offers versatility and high performance for off-highway machine applications, according to the firm. With these additions, the comprehensive range comprises 14 pumps with displacements covering 45-250cm3, five bent axis motors spanning 60-250cm3 and five control options. This offers solutions for advanced transmission solutions. According to Danfoss, efficiency compensates for low engine rpm. Featu
  • Improving excavator efficiency with Trimble
    December 11, 2018
    A new development from Trimble is the integration of its LOADRITE load weighing system for excavators using the Earthworks Grade Control package. According to the firm, this will allow customers to boost productivity and efficiency for excavation work. Contractors will be able to track the load carried in each bucket and monitor mass haul progress. This can provide an accurate picture, real-time picture of earthworks progress using the Trimble Earthworks monitor fitted in the machine. This data will also be
  • Market for GPS machine control systems growing fast
    February 14, 2012
    The sector for machine guidance systems is growing fast as contractors become more and more aware of the benefits of using this technology. Increased speed, working accuracy and cost effectiveness are key benefits of this technology, with just three firms, Trimble, Topcon and the Hexagon Group, dominating the market. The Hexagon Group is perhaps the newest entrant to the sector, having acquired Leica Geosystems and Scanlaser in recent years. John Fraser is sales and marketing manager at Scanlaser, and expla
  • Philips CityTouch brings street lighting into focus
    December 20, 2016
    As far as 99% of any city’s population is concerned, street lights are just, well, there. But big changes are taking place, as explained by lighting systems provider Philips Lighting. Street lighting has been with us for more than a century. With the exception of the early 20th century switchover from gas to electricity and the recent most important invention of LEDs, there have been few obvious changes.