Dana displays prototype work platform and mini-excavator

First published at bauma - April 10, 2019

Dana Mini Excavator

Prototypes are the name of the game at Dana, as it shows customers the shape of things to come in several different fields.

The US company is showing an aerial work platform (AWP) and a mini-excavator outside between Halls A4 and A5 that incorporate a batch of new technologies.

The two machines are not destined for production, but to gauge reaction from the company’s client base. Once feedback has been collated, Dana will aim to co-develop equipment with an OEM, said Ettore Cosoli, vice-president global engineering.

The 18-metre AWP has a non-traditional four-wheel drive design to demonstrate the range and effectiveness of Dana’s e-Mobility capabilities. A Spicer Electrified e-Axle powered by an integrated motor and inverter supports the steering function at the front of the AWP, while the rear is equipped with two Spicer Electrified e-Hub drives.

Dana says that the e-Axle configures Spicer axle components and drive and motion intelligence, motor and control technologies, together with advanced gearing. This optimised combination of components reduces power losses by 20% compared to traditional diesel-powered drivetrains.

The AWP also has a stability control system that monitors weight distribution and automatically takes action to prevent tipping accidents.

The mini-excavator uses electric motors and inverters to power the vehicle’s drive and motion functions and give a top travel speed of 4kp/h, about twice as fast as a conventional AWP.

With the mini-excavator, says Cosoli, Dana completely disassembled a standard machine, removed its internal combustion engine and all its actuation systems, replacing them with new equipment including a battery pack, battery management system, electric motors and joysticks.

Over the past few years, Dana has acquired a cluster of companies to round out its portfolio of technologies. Answering questions at the company’s press conference, Dana president and CEO Jim Kamsickas said that while the company does not rule out further acquisitions, if they happen they will be opportunistic in nature. Dana will certainly be spending less time on such activities than over the past two years, he added.

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