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 as well as for the upcoming e-Truck. This includes a change in Tier-1 suppliers and their components that are 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 provide support for and collaborate with the VDL ETS engineers on their new charge controller architecture, software migration, coding and code restructuring and optimisation. 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 the production version of VDL Citea’s E-Worker. Existing operational buses are being monitored in the field and updated with new versions.

Technology

CODESYS, MATLAB®, Simulink®, LogiCAD (IEC61131), VECTOR and 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.