Windrose, the Antwerp-based electric semi truck manufacturer, has introduced a compact electric power take-off (PTO) system capable of delivering up to 70 kW of power. This new solution, integrated directly into the company’s proprietary e-axle, aims to address a key challenge for electric truck fleets operating specialized equipment.
A New Approach to Electric PTO
The Windrose electric PTO is designed to provide up to 70 kW of power for external equipment, such as ramps and hydraulic lifts, without relying on a diesel engine. Measuring roughly the size of an iPad, the PTO is built into Windrose’s own e-axle and operates on an 800V high voltage platform.
According to Wen Han, founder and CEO of Windrose, the company developed this solution after finding no suitable electric PTO options for their needs. Han explained, “It’s the size of an iPad and directly integrated into our own designed e-axle. With zero emissions, it provides 70kW of power, based on our 800V high voltage platform.”
How Electric PTOs Work
A power take-off (PTO) is a mechanical interface that allows trucks to power external equipment. On diesel trucks, PTOs typically draw energy from the engine or transmission. Electric trucks, lacking a combustion engine, must instead use battery power and electric motors to drive accessories.
Windrose’s solution integrates the PTO into the e-axle, streamlining installation and compatibility with a wide range of equipment. This approach differs from other manufacturers, such as Volvo, whose VNR Electric semi uses an electric drive motor paired with an existing transmission, or Tesla’s Semi, which uses independent electric motors without a traditional transmission.
Performance and Real-World Testing
The Windrose R700 electric semi has demonstrated its capabilities by hauling a 75,000 lb. (approximately 34,000 kg) combined load over 578 miles (~930 km) between Colton, California and Buckeye, Arizona. This route is part of the I-10 freight corridor, a major artery for coast-to-coast transport in the United States.
By offering a high-output electric PTO, Windrose aims to make its trucks more versatile for fleets that require significant auxiliary power.
Competitor Comparison
Windrose’s integrated electric PTO sets it apart from competitors like Volvo and Tesla. The Volvo VNR Electric semi uses a drive motor with an existing automated transmission, allowing for traditional PTO compatibility. Tesla’s Semi, on the other hand, uses independent electric motors without a transmission, making PTO integration more complex.
Windrose’s compact, e-axle-based solution is designed to be compatible with a broad range of equipment, potentially giving it an edge in markets where auxiliary power is essential.
Historical Context
Windrose has set ambitious goals, aiming to power 5% of the world’s trucks by 2030. The company also plans to meet access and sales requirements in 74 countries by the end of 2026, signaling a global push for its electric truck technology.
Regional Availability
Windrose is expanding its reach, with plans to make its electric trucks and PTO solutions available in 74 countries by the end of 2026. This broad availability is intended to support global fleets seeking to transition to zero-emission transport.
Why this matters
The introduction of a compact, high-output electric PTO addresses a significant barrier for electric truck adoption in industries that rely on auxiliary equipment. By integrating the PTO into the e-axle, Windrose offers a solution that could accelerate the shift away from diesel-powered trucks, especially for fleets with demanding power needs.
As more regions implement stricter emissions standards, solutions like Windrose’s electric PTO could play a key role in enabling zero-emission freight and logistics operations.
What this means for buyers
Fleet operators considering electric trucks for specialized transport can now look to Windrose’s R700 and its integrated PTO as a viable alternative to diesel-powered vehicles. Buyers should compare the compatibility and power output of Windrose’s solution with offerings from established brands like Volvo and Tesla, especially if auxiliary equipment is a core requirement.
With Windrose targeting availability in 74 countries by the end of 2026, potential buyers should monitor regional rollout plans and assess how the new PTO system fits their operational needs.
Key Specs
- Electric PTO Output: 70 kW (~94 hp)
- PTO Integration: Directly integrated into proprietary e-axle
- Voltage Platform: 800V
- Tested Haul Capacity: 75,000 lb. (~34,000 kg) combined load
- Tested Range: 578 miles (~930 km)
- Regional Availability: Planned for 74 countries by end of 2026
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, windrose.tech, 36kr.com
