The Iveco Z Truck, designed by CNH Industrial Design Centre and dubbed as a “totally sustainable transport system,” combines alternative energy sources, new technologies and autonomous driving to become the long-haul zero-impact vehicle of the future.
The “Z” in Z Truck stands for “zero” – zero CO2 emissions, zero accidents, zero stress and zero waste of time. The Z Truck achieves zero CO2 emissions by having its 460-hp (343-kW), 2,000-Nm (1,475 lb.ft) engine running on Bio-LNG (liquefied natural gas) with conformable tanks, enhanced aerodynamics and a waste heat recovery system. It also features a new concept tank, made of aluminum and a reflective foil layer that protects from heat radiation. Iveco claims the Z Truck uses 33% less fuel, however a full tank will still give it a range of about 2,200 km (1,367 mi).
Zero accidents – or accident avoidance – is expected through the use of new advanced autonomous driving technologies, while the inside of the cabin accounts for zero stress and zero waste of time by delivering a more driver-centered design. This design approach allows for the cabin to be configured better for the driver’s needs, whether for driving, automated driving, office work or resting. The interior also includes a foldable bed, shower, kitchen, fridge, sink and entertainment wall. The HMI (Human Machine Interface) inside the truck aims at providing zero waste of time by displaying “adaptive information” or only the necessary information, such as tire pressure, at the right time when it is most needed.
All of this new technology and design has resulted in the vehicle being protected by 29 patents. Pierre Lahutte, Iveco brand president, explained, “With Iveco Z Truck and its 29 patents, we are defining where our efforts could lead us in the future: a vehicle with a human dimension, designed to accommodate comfortably and safely the work and leisure activities of the driver, adapting each time to his needs. We are defining a future of long-haul freight transport that is totally sustainable – a vehicle that has zero impact on its environment, with zero emissions and zero accidents.”
While it’s highly unlikely for this exact truck to be available in the near future, some of the design and technologies presented could potentially be integrated into Iveco’s next generation of trucks.
Source via: Iveco
[divider]
Article Written by Mila Medonaite for Design Engine, October 3, 2016