Accelera Enhances EV Braking Efficiency

Accelera™ by Cummins, the zero-emissions division of Cummins Inc., has introduced its new integrated brake chopper resistor (iBCR) at the IAA Transportation event in Hannover, Germany. This innovative iBCR boasts robust cybersecurity, enhanced performance, and increased reliability, aiming to elevate the safety and efficiency of commercial electric vehicles. By leveraging technology from the Accelera ELFA 3 inverter series, the iBCR addresses critical aspects of electric vehicle performance, including electrical endurance braking and energy efficiency.

Key Highlights

Enhanced Regenerative Braking: The iBCR optimizes regenerative braking by capturing surplus energy during braking and converting it into heat. This energy can be utilized to heat the vehicle’s cabin or manage the battery system, leading to improved efficiency and energy savings.
Cost-Effective Compliance: Integrating with a liquid-cooled resistor, the compact iBCR offers an economical solution to meet UN ECE R 13 European regulatory standards. It optimizes battery size and reduces the need for buffer capacity, while also relieving strain on friction brakes to enhance durability and lower maintenance costs.
Safety Improvements: The iBCR enhances safety by providing increased responsiveness and the ability for uninterrupted endurance braking. It can dissipate excess energy as heat with up to 150-kilowatt (kW) output power, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications that require reliable braking performance.

“Our new iBCR transforms traditional electric drive systems by integrating enhanced efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness,” said Brian Wilson, General Manager of eMobility at Accelera. “By harnessing regenerative braking and optimizing energy management, we’re driving innovation while shaping a cleaner, greener mobility landscape.”

In addition to the iBCR, Accelera is showcasing several next-generation technologies at IAA, including a modular 300kW hydrogen fuel cell engine, compact high-power eAxles, next-generation batteries, and efficient traction systems. Many of these products can be seamlessly integrated into existing commercial vehicles or paired with other Accelera offerings, facilitating a smooth transition to lower- or zero-carbon applications for customers.

Accelera’s latest advancements underscore its commitment to driving innovation in the electric vehicle sector, ensuring safer and more efficient solutions for the future of commercial transportation.

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