Epec Flow enables customized electrification

Finish technology company Epec has launched the Epec Flow electromobility offering, a comprehensive and customizable solution for electrifying non-road mobile machines and commercial vehicles.

The Epec Flow PDU integrates seamlessly with the machine control system to optimize and automate power distribution. (Photo: Epec)

At the center of Epec Flow is a control system and power distribution unit (PDU) that reliably and safely distributes the power for third-party components, such as electric motors and battery systems. The PDU’s integrated safety solutions enable effective manufacturing and maintenance of machines and effective operation in demanding conditions, said Epec.

The  PDU integrates seamlessly with the machine control system, making it possible to optimize and automate power distribution, said Epec. The electric powertrain is controlled by the hybrid control unit (HCU), which includes software developed to enable optimal energy consumption, productivity and usability.

The electric powertrain is controlled by the hybrid control unit (HCU). (Photo: Epec)

Epec Flow adapts to different vehicle architectures, enables over-the-air software updates and is scalable and customizable. It enables OEMs to select electric powertrain components from various suppliers, with system development in cooperation with  project teams from both the OEM and its suppliers. Epec Flow also includes testing and validation support for the complete vehicle.

“The software can be developed using simulation models, and the solution can be agilely developed for the needs of different machinery. The different systems, including the transmission and control system, work seamlessly together, enabling the manufacture of safe and efficient zero-emission machines in the future,” said Jyri Kylä-Kaila, managing director of Epec.

The Epec Flow solution has been researched and tested for several years, including with Ponsse, a manufacturer of sustainable harvesting solutions. Ponsse has launched an electric forest machine technology concept, Ponsse EV1, a 15-tonne capacity forwarder, utilizing Epec Flow.

The Ponsse EV1 concept began its initial development in 2019, when Ponsse and Epec started to investigate responsible power source solutions in line with sustainable development. The concept machine features a fully electric powertrain as well as Epec Flow’s PDU and HCU. The machine’s powertrain operates fully with battery energy. A Range Extender is used to charge the battery pack, which is powered by an internal combustion engine at this stage of the development work.

Ponsse has launched an electric forest machine technology concept, the Ponsse EV1, utilizing Epec Flow. (Photo: Ponsse)

“Technological development is fast and offers us excellent opportunities to develop our solutions further, even in unexpected directions. We have worked hard with our technology company Epec to enable this concept. At the same time, both companies have developed their capabilities, and we have gained significant new knowledge during this project,” said Juho Nummela, president and CEO, Ponsse Plc.

“This launch of a new technology concept is a peek into the future and one of the solutions offered by electric powertrains,” he continued. “Sustainable development is a clear future success factor for Ponsse. We want to develop our solutions and Epec strongly further. Our strategy change at Epec has been successful, and we are very pleased with Ponsse’s great development.”