Trova Commercial Vehicles (TrovaCV) is developing a diesel-to-electric (D2E) driveline-conversion program for electrifying existing Class 7-8 diesel-powered trucks. TrovaCV is developing a prototype vehicle and engineering processes for the conversion program, with a rollout planned in late 2022. Each conversion will ride on TrovaCV’s new proprietary rolling chassis, which is purpose-built to accommodate battery-electric driveline components.

The company says a key advantage of this design is that the truck’s battery packs can be packaged within the chassis rails. Central mounting increases battery-pack durability compared to side-rail mounting, helps improve vehicle stability and increases the safety of the batteries and vehicle in major side-impact crashes.

Prior to the arrival of the original truck, TrovaCV says the new rolling chassis will be equipped with a brand-new electric driveline. Once the truck is cleaned and all liquids have been drained, then the bumper, hood and cab will be removed and prepped for reassembly. Next, the original axles, fifth wheel and brake system from the existing truck will be transferred onto the new chassis. Then the cab, hood and bumper will be reassembled.

Upon completion of the D2E conversion, the fleet customer will drive away with their original truck, but it will ride on a brand-new chassis powered by a battery-electric driveline.