Concentric secures nomination for EHS system with leading global OEM
A leading global manufacturer of heavy trucks and buses has recently nominated Concentric AB to manufacture Electro Hydraulic Steering (“EHS”) units for their hybrid applications. Production will start in the fourth quarter of 2016, reaching mature volumes in 2018, which are expected to generate annual revenues of approximately MSEK 15 across Europe.
Concentric has developed the EHS unit to replace the normal power steering pump and provide power steering assistance when needed. On a conventional truck or bus the hydraulic power assistance for the steering comes from an IC engine driven pump following the engine speed. This is also the case in many off highway applications. Typically the pump is dimensioned to give full power steering function already at idle speed of the IC engine. The pump is constantly running and consuming power from the engine. In a hybrid application where the vehicle can operate in pure electric mode, the conventional power steering system cannot be used since the IC engine is turned off during electric mode. However, using Concentric’s EHS system, the unit only provides the required power on demand and can still operate during the electric mode for hybrid applications.
The primary benefit of the EHS system is reduced energy consumption, achieving up to 50% in certain applications. It also fits very well into hybrid vehicles where conventional systems cannot be used. The EHS system is typically placed close to the steering gear which also means reduced installation costs.
David Woolley, President and CEO of Concentric AB commented: “This first major nomination for Concentric’s EHS system is a significant breakthrough in a market that is driven by increased electrification and control. The nomination demonstrates our ongoing commitment to innovation that enables our customers to achieve sustainable solutions. “
Concentric's hydraulic product range includes pumps, motors, power packs and flow dividers specified by leading OEMs for a wide range of applications including lift trucks, aerial work platforms, agricultural equipment, transmissions, mining, construction and road-building machinery. Applications include cooling fans, axle cooling systems, rotary drives for agricultural equipment, electro-hydraulic lifts, transmission clutch actuation and lubrication, auxiliary brake and steering systems.
Mia Segerberg, Group Communications, phone: +46 722 269080