Danfoss Power Solutions is supplying its Editron eDrive to VTS Track Solutions to propel the company’s new Fero Tracked Carriers. The ETP-10 and ETP-20 are remote-controlled battery-electric carriers designed for effortless material transport in construction, forestry, landscaping, workshops, and other applications. The low-voltage eDrive from Danfoss — a compact, integrated system solution — was the perfect match for Fero Carriers, offering high efficiency and reliability as well as precise control.
Moving heavy materials around job sites — bricks, bags of sand and cement, fence posts, windows — has traditionally required manual labor, which carries a risk of injury. Heavy machinery reduces physical strain, but the machines are not always available when needed and, in some cases, not right for the job. Material carriers solve this issue, easily and safely transporting heavy items. Electric carriers produce no exhaust fumes and make little noise, making them ideal for interior and exterior work. They also comply with regulations requiring use of emission-free machinery on urban building sites, and they may qualify for subsidies in some jurisdictions.
VTS Track Solutions saw an opportunity to improve on the material carriers available on the market. Drawing on their expertise in designing and producing undercarriages and power packs for tracked machinery, VTS began development work in early 2024 on Fero Carriers, a new generation of rugged, compact battery-electric tracked vehicles capable of operating on multiple terrains and conditions. VTS evaluated drive systems from multiple manufacturers, and ultimately selected the Danfoss Editron eDrive, citing its performance, integration capability, and reliability. The eDrive is a propel solution for compact, low-voltage machinery that comprises an inverter and two interior permanent magnet electric motors integrated with high-performance gearboxes. Designed to be the most compact drive solution on the market, the eDrive simplifies machine integration while maximizing system efficiency. “We chose Danfoss because of its brand quality, robust engineering standards, and the availability of a complete, well-matched propulsion package. The dual-controller configuration was especially valuable for our design, as it minimizes the number of separate components and saves critical installation space within the center frame. This results in a compact, clean installation that enhances reliability and ease of assembly — key aspects of the Fero brand’s focus on quality, simplicity, and durability,” explained engineer Daan van Kerkhoff, VTS Track Solutions.
Danfoss personnel worked with VTS engineers to customize the eDrive system software for the tracked machine, which requires independent speed control for the two motors. Danfoss engineers also assisted with system layout, parameter tuning, validation testing, and integration guidance. “This collaboration not only accelerated our design process but also strengthened our confidence in delivering a technically solid and future-proof product. For us, the partnership with Danfoss reflects a shared commitment to high-quality engineering, sustainability, and innovation in the electrification of off-highway machinery,” van Kerkhoff said.
The ETP-10 boasts a 1,000-kilogram load capacity and platform dimensions of 1,236 by 780 millimeters. Its compact width enables easy passage through most doorways. Operated via Danfoss remote control, the carrier has two travel speeds with a maximum speed of 4 kilometers per hour. Its 24-volt lithium battery has a capacity of 2.5 kilowatt-hours and charging time of 3.5 hours. Optional accessories such as stanchions, an electric winch, tow hitch, and tilting container, among others, enhance the machine’s versatility. The ETP-20 builds on the features of the ETP-10 with a higher load capacity of 2,000 kg and a larger rotating platform measuring 1,445 by 780 mm. It has a 48-V lithium battery and 3 kph maximum speed. Manufactured in the Netherlands, Fero Carriers are distinguished by their high quality and durability. The Editron eDrive supports the Fero brand promise through its precise control behavior, strong torque delivery, and high efficiency, even in demanding conditions. The electric drive and tracked undercarriage ensure smooth, stable movement over various surfaces, making the carriers a reliable and efficient solution for a wide range of transport tasks.
“We see the Fero Carriers as a valuable expansion of the Verhoeven International portfolio. Introduced at Bauma in Munich, the initial market response was very positive, and we see strong market potential for these carriers,” said Ruud Weekers, Marketing Manager at Verhoeven International. Verhoeven International is the parent company of VTS Track Solutions. Within the group, the sales and service activities for Fero are assigned to Verhoeven Belgium. To support further growth, a worldwide dealer network is being established. For more information, visit the Fero Carriers website or the Danfoss Editron eDrive webpage.
Coming soon...