BAIC Foton Begins AxTrax2 Electric Drive Axle Production in China

BAIC Foton has announced that the first AxTrax2 electric drive axle has officially rolled off the production line at ZF Foton Automated Transmission Co Ltd, its transmission joint venture with ZF Friedrichshafen AG in Jiaxing, China. The milestone marks another step in the localization of advanced electric drivetrain technology for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles, supporting the industry's transition toward zero-emission transportation while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities.

The AxTrax2 is ZF's integrated electric axle platform developed for next-generation commercial vehicles. Designed specifically for medium- and heavy-duty applications, the system replaces the conventional engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle with a modular electric drive solution. This integrated architecture enables vehicle manufacturers to simplify drivetrain packaging while advancing the electrification of commercial vehicle platforms without compromising performance or operational capability.

The AxTrax2 electric drive axle manufactured at the Jiaxing facility is equipped with a silicon carbide inverter capable of supporting vehicle platforms operating at up to 930 V. It delivers a continuous output of 210 kW while producing peak torque of 26,000 Nm. The electric axle also incorporates a 3-speed transmission together with an electronic shift actuator, providing efficient power delivery across a wide range of operating conditions for commercial vehicle applications.

The integrated drivetrain has also been engineered to work in synchronization with the vehicle's braking systems, ADAS technologies, and autonomous driving functions. This coordinated operation allows the electric drive axle to support advanced vehicle control strategies while improving overall system integration for future commercial vehicle platforms adopting higher levels of electrification and intelligent driving capabilities.

BAIC Foton and ZF established their joint venture in Jiaxing in 2017 to manufacture advanced transmission technologies. In April 2023, both companies signed a strategic agreement to introduce ZF's latest electric drive technology into China and localize production at the Jiaxing manufacturing facility. The production rollout of the AxTrax2 electric drive axle represents the implementation of that strategy and further expands localized manufacturing of advanced commercial vehicle electrification technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AxTrax2 Electric Drive Axle and why is it significant?
The AxTrax2 Electric Drive Axle is ZF's integrated electric axle platform designed for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. It replaces the conventional engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle with a modular electric drive system. The platform supports vehicle electrification while delivering 210 kW continuous output, 26,000 Nm peak torque, a silicon carbide inverter supporting up to 930 V platforms, and seamless integration with braking, ADAS, and autonomous driving systems.