Equipmake Holdings plc has signed a technology agreement with Hillcrest Energy Technologies to develop an 800-volt traction inverter for heavy-duty electric vehicles.
The agreement combines Hillcrest’s Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) technology with Equipmake’s electric drivetrain engineering and manufacturing capabilities. The companies will target electric trucks, buses, coaches and specialist off-highway vehicles used in construction, agriculture, mining and industrial applications.
The technology is designed to reduce electrical losses, improve inverter efficiency and lower electromagnetic interference. These improvements could help extend vehicle range, reduce operating costs and improve the performance of electric powertrains.
Hillcrest’s ZVS technology has achieved peak inverter efficiency of 99.7% during laboratory testing. Separate testing has also demonstrated a reduction of more than 90% in motor-terminal voltage overshoot.
The development programme will involve two prototype stages, each subject to agreed technical performance requirements. The companies aim to finalise the technical specification and resource plan within six months.
Equipmake will provide engineering staff, testing facilities and its experience in powertrain integration and manufacturing. Hillcrest will contribute its ZVS technology and technical expertise.
If the final prototype meets the agreed acceptance criteria, Equipmake will receive exclusive worldwide manufacturing and sales rights for the licensed technology in the specified vehicle markets. The initial exclusivity period will last six years, subject to annual minimum sales targets.
The agreement covers heavy commercial trucks, buses, coaches and off-highway equipment, but excludes passenger vehicles.
Equipmake Holdings plc (AQSE:EQIP) delivers lightweight, high‑performance electric propulsion systems – designed, integrated, and rigorously tested to meet the exacting demands of next‑generation technology.
