(Ev) high voltage is no longer just a pure drive system in the commercial vehicle sector! Electric commercial vehicles can also use their high-voltage systems to supply other devices, the Electric Power Take-Off (ePTO).

What is ePTO in the (ev) high voltage context?

ePTO stands for “Electric Power Take-Off” and represents a uniform interface that is intended to provide a safe and standard-compliant standard connection. In high-voltage vehicles, such as hybrid or battery-electric trucks, the high-voltage ePTO draws the energy required for auxiliary systems – such as hydraulic pumps or cranes – directly from the high-voltage battery. However, these systems become part of the extended high-voltage system. For this reason, ePTOs are also a topic in the qualification of specialist high voltage(ev) ev) according to DGUV I 209-093 Level 2E.

Safety has top priority

When handling high-voltage systems such as the high-voltage interface of the ePTO, safety is the top priority. The high voltages, which can reach up to 1000 volts, pose considerable risks to personnel if they are not handled properly. Accidental contact with high-voltage systems can cause serious injury or even fatal accidents. Therefore, strict safety protocols must be implemented to minimize potential risks.

Particularly in the production and maintenance of (ev) high voltage vehicles, it must be ensured that the systems are properly switched off and secured before maintenance work begins. Insulation monitoring systems and the clear marking of high-voltage systems are also crucial to minimize risks. This is ensured by SHV in production and development according to level 2E or level 2S in the maintenance area of series vehicles.

For use by the respective user, an implementation must be made possible that enables an intrinsically safe state and thus guarantees safety in the same way as simply driving electric vehicles. After all, the driver does not need to have a high-voltage qualification, just a driver’s license.

Use of ePTO in practice

ePTO (Electric Power Take-Off) is intended as an interface especially for work vehicles that operate heavy equipment. One example is trucks with lifting platforms or cranes, which are operated electrically by ePTO instead of running the engine at idle like a pure combustion vehicle. It is therefore not only intended for purely electric vehicles, but is of course particularly suitable for BEVs and hybrid vehicles. This significantly reduces fuel consumption, emissions and noise pollution. ePTO is also used in the municipal sector, such as in refuse collection vehicles or street cleaning vehicles, to operate the auxiliary units electrically and thus minimize the environmental impact. Other ePTO applications can also be found in airport equipment, such as ground vehicles for aircraft maintenance. Development and practice will show to what extent uninterrupted demand for purely electric commercial vehicles can also be implemented with the help of ePTO – e.g. refrigerated trailers on trucks that have to ensure the cold chain.

Conclusion

ePTO systems significantly expand the use of (ev) high voltage technology in commercial vehicles. The use of electrical energy for auxiliary systems such as hydraulic pumps or cranes significantly reduces emissions, noise and fuel consumption. At the same time, the focus remains on safety – not only when training employees in development and production in accordance with DGUV I 209-093, but also for the user. The use of ePTO not only offers ecological benefits, but also shows how high-voltage systems are transforming the vehicle industry and enabling new, efficient applications.

Are you looking for a suitable (ev) high voltage qualification for your team? All courses such as the “Specialist high voltage (ev)” course mentioned above or the short course to become a specialist high voltage (ev) instructed person. More information on this can be found on our homepage www.tcs-engineering.de We offer various open seminars as well as customized in-house seminars. customized in-house seminars in-house seminars.

Our free(REALLY free, even WITHOUT having to provide an email address!) paper “6 things you need to know in advance about the high-voltage qualification of your employees” is available here (click).