August 19, 2026

Live at the IAA Transportation 2026: Driventic presents new VEDS 2.2 and many other innovations

HEIDENHEIM, GERMANY. From September 14 to 20, Driventic will be premiering the latest highlights from its comprehensive product range for commercial vehicles like buses and trucks live at the IAA Transportation in Hanover (Hall 11 / Booth B06). The new VEDS 2.2, the next development stage of the proven VEDS electric drive system, will take center stage, accompanied by numerous other innovations such as the groundbreaking Electric Air Compressor (EAC) and two newly developed retarders – the powerful VR 3600 and a retarder with ECO function. These solutions are rounded out by the next milestone in the strategic partnership between Hendrickson and Driventic: ELECTRAAX – a high-efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle for Class 6-7 school buses and medium-duty trucks.

VEDS 2.2 – even more compact, lighter and versatile

Driventic has drawn on the integrated system approach of the VEDS for the VEDS 2.2 and taken it to the next logical level, including by optimizing the torque-to-power ratio for use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Weighing just 275 kg in total, the drive unit is therefore even more compact and lightweight, without sacrificing the necessary performance. Driventic also plans to use the VEDS 2.2 as part of its global portfolio strategy to tap into and electrify new markets and vehicle segments such as HD buses, coaches, and MD trucks.

 

 

Electric Air Compressor (EAC) sets new benchmarks

Developed for worldwide use, Driventic’s cutting-edge Electric Air Compressor (EAC) combines maximum energy efficiency and durability with an exceptionally low noise level – setting new standards for compressed air management in commercial vehicles. What’s so special about the EAC is that it is far more than just a single component. It is a complete, coordinated system solution that meets all requirements of electric commercial vehicle operation. The aim is to save resources and energy, extend operating life, and substantially reduce environmental impact. For example, the two-stage compression process enables energy savings of up to 35% compared with conventional solutions – a crucial advantage in energy- and cost-conscious fleet management, especially for electrified commercial vehicles like trucks and buses.

 

 

VR 3600 retarder delivers significantly improved performance

The new VR 3600 retarder succeeds the proven VR 3250, which has been installed in commercial vehicles for more than 25 years now – once again providing impressive proof of Driventic’s reliability and technical expertise as a long-term partner. The VR 3600, which was specifically developed for the new generation I-shift transmission (AMT-H) within the context of the forthcoming Euro 7 emission standard, offers much better performance than the VR 3250. With a maximum braking torque of 3,600 Nm, the system is also setting new standards. The same applies to the new MRCU (Mechatronic Retarder Control Unit), which satisfies all the requirements of ISO 26262 for functional safety and ISO 21434 for automotive cybersecurity.

 

 

New retarder with ECO function: VR 115CT ECO

Whether operating with or without the shut-off function, the further improved actuators and intelligent braking system of the new Driventic retarder with ECO function noticeably improve the efficient interplay of braking, shifting and acceleration during vehicle operation. This reduces the average engine rpm while increasing the average speed. When the VR 115CT ECO is switched off, the drag loss that would otherwise occur is also eliminated completely. In day-to-day operation, this improved handling results in significantly lower overall fuel consumption, greater safety, less wear and tear, and a more comfortable ride.

 

 

Another standout product: ELECTRAAX – the high-efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle

The primary objective of the strategic partnership between Hendrickson and Driventic is to help commercial fleets improve their efficiency and reduce TCO as they transition to emission-free vehicles. The new joint solution, which made its debut at the 2026 ACT Expo, merges Hendrickson’s expertise in chassis and axles with Driventic’s cutting-edge, energy-efficient technologies in a next-generation platform designed for performance and availability. ELECTRAAX – a high-efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle for Class 6-7 school buses and medium-duty trucks.

 

 

More information on all of Driventic’s new products and innovations is available from September 14 to 20 live at the IAA Transportation 2026 in Hanover (Hall 11 / Booth B06). Enjoy an exclusive preview on the very first day of the fair at the official press conference at the Driventic booth from 1:00 p.m.

 

 

Contact

Sebastian Busch

Vice President Brand & Communications

Phone +49 7321 746 2052

Sebastian.Busch@Driventic.com

Highlights at a glance

  • Next development stage of VEDS electric drive system – the new VEDS 2.2.

  • Also new: Electric Air Compressor (EAC), VR 3600 retarder, and retarder with ECO function.

  • Complementing these products is the next milestone in the strategic partnership between Hendrickson and Driventic: the high-efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle ELECTRAAX.

The new electric drive system VEDS 2.2 is one of Driventic’s featured products at the IAA Transportation 2026.

The groundbreaking Electric Air Compressor (EAC) combines maximum energy efficiency and durability with an exceptionally low noise level.

Driventic Retarder VR3600

The new VR 3600 succeeds the proven VR 3250 and delivers a much improved performance.

Retarder VR115CT ECO

Another highlight is the VR 115CT ECO, the new Driventic retarder with ECO function.

ELECTRAAX HYDRAULIC Disc

Designed by Hendrickson, powered by Driventic: ELECTRAAX – a high‑efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle engineered for Class 6–7 school bus and medium-duty truck applications.

Download press kit