The customer’s challenge

One of VDL ETS’ projects has been to change their vehicle architecture to create a universal architecture for the existing VDL Citea E-worker buses and the upcoming e-Truck. This includes a change in Tier-1 suppliers and their components linked to the e-vehicles’ charge control. This change has a direct impact on the software components, programming language and architecture. VDL is looking for an architecture that is in line with a future and state-of-the-art software development process.

Sioux’s contribution

Sioux installed an on-site software engineer who will support and collaborate with the VDL ETS engineers on their new charge controller architecture, software migration, coding and code restructuring, and optimization. Apart from these R&D activities, Sioux will also provide VDL with field support at the customer’s location.

Result

During this ongoing process, the first release was launched and implemented in VDL Citea’s E-Worker production version. Existing operational buses are being monitored in the field and updated with new versions.

Technologies

CODESYS, MATLAB®, Simulink®, LogiCAD (IEC61131), VECTOR, CANalyser/CANoe

Model.Name

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions focuses on researching, developing and testing new opportunities for the transport-related activities of VDL companies in particular. The aim is to develop environmentally friendly, innovative hardware and software solutions in the fields of electric transport (E-mobility), battery technology, charging infrastructure, energy storage, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), guidance and navigation technology.