During an insightful conversation with Nagaraj Ubale, Managing Director of BPW Trailer Systems India, at IAA 2024, Rajesh Rajgor delved into BPW’s pioneering innovations in electrification and digitalization tailored for the Indian logistics sector. Nagaraj discussed advancements like the E-Power Axle and iC Plus, which are set to transform transportation efficiency and sustainability in India.
The E-Power Axle, A power to Trailer
At the IAA Transportation Show in Hannover 2024, Nagaraj highlighted BPW’s pioneering innovations in electrification and digitalization, focusing on advancements tailored to Indian logistics. “We’re focusing on electric solutions that meet both current demands and future growth,” Nagaraj shared, presenting BPW’s E-Power Axle, a self-energy-generating system designed to power various trailer functions, including refrigeration units. This axle, which converts kinetic energy from the trailer’s movement into electric power, can reduce diesel dependence for refrigerated transport—an innovation that Nagaraj stressed as “transformational for India’s cold-chain logistics.”
Addressing the specific needs of refrigerated vehicles, BPW designed the E-Power Axle to support reefer units by generating power independently. “Our E-Power Axle is engineered to support refrigeration units by providing a steady, self-generated power source,” he shared. This not only improves fuel economy but also ensures a reliable energy supply, safeguarding perishable cargo.
iC Plus, an integrated telematic system
After the BPW’s success of Express logistics solution for the Indian logistics sector, With comprehensive package of AMC fleet for 1500 vehicles. Digitization of trailer fleet is the next step for an Indian logistics sector.
BPW also introduced iC Plus, an intelligent maintenance system that provides real-time alerts for upkeep, reducing the likelihood of unexpected downtimes. “iC Plus allows customers to manage maintenance more proactively, with scheduled alerts that optimize the lifecycle of critical components,” he explained. When integrated with BPW’s telematics system, Intelligent Data Management (IDM), iC Plus sends alerts on maintenance metrics, mileage, and load weights directly to fleet managers’ mobile devices, enhancing ease and visibility in fleet management.
Enhanced Maneuverability Solutions
Other highlights from BPW’s product range at the show included reverse-steering and self-steering axles, engineered to enhance trailer maneuverability with a reduced turning radius—an essential feature in India’s congested urban areas. “We’ve designed our axles to provide increased efficiency and tighter control, potentially reducing fuel consumption by up to one liter per 100 kilometers,” Nagaraj said. With logistics demands growing in urban centers, this feature could prove invaluable for fleet operators looking to optimize fuel use and navigate tighter spaces.
BPW’s focus on digital integration extends to air suspension and electronic braking systems, both of which are becoming increasingly relevant in the Indian market for their advantages in payload management and vibration reduction. “Air suspension and EBS technology allow for smoother transport, increased payloads, and better fuel efficiency—priorities for our customers operating on India’s challenging road networks,” Nagaraj added, underscoring BPW’s commitment to engineering for durability and efficiency.
He further emphasized BPW’s collaborative approach in India, working closely with OEMs and trailer manufacturers to meet the unique requirements of the Indian logistics market. “Our ecosystem approach involves working across all elements—from axles to telematics—to offer solutions that are not only technically advanced but also economically viable for transporters,” he shared. By integrating components like the E-Power Axle, iC Plus, IDM (Intelligent Data Management), and others, BPW offers a comprehensive solution tailored to the regulatory and operational needs of Indian logistics.
With products like the E-Power Axle and iC Plus, BPW is setting a new benchmark for innovation and efficiency in India’s transport sector. “BPW’s technology is designed to deliver immediate and measurable benefits for fleet operators, making it a compelling choice as the industry shifts towards smarter, more sustainable logistics solutions,” Nagaraj concluded.