Collaborative Innovation: A Different Approach to Compact Equipment Electrification

The rental industry has been buzzing with the benefits of electrification for years now. However, the shift towards electric equipment has presented unique challenges for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of compact equipment as they navigate the complexities of battery power. For small to midsize OEMs, this transition can be especially challenging as they often don’t have an in-house engineering team to help design and integrate electrification solutions. 

To help bridge the gap for OEMs, Briggs & Stratton^® / Vanguard^® Commercial Power has pioneered the Vanguard™ Battery Technology Partner program. The program aims to partner solutions providers across the United States and Canada with specialized OEMs to offer extended engineering support. This collaborative approach to engineering is transforming the way OEMs approach equipment electrification and unlocking potential across applications, including niche rental equipment. 
 

Understanding the Compact Equipment Industry's Electrification Challenges

Electrifying compact equipment involves more than just replacing engines with a battery. It requires intentional design and integration of a battery system that combines specialized components like a battery, motors, motor controllers, a battery management system and a charger into a comprehensive solution that works within the footprint of the piece of equipment. 

The compact equipment industry includes a diverse range of applications such as construction equipment, turf machinery and industrial vehicles, all of which operate under rigorous conditions and require robust, reliable power sources. Key considerations when electrifying compact equipment include power density and durability, operational range and charging infrastructure, and weight and space constraints. Compact equipment demands high power density and must perform in extreme conditions while batteries need to provide consistent energy output and withstand harsh environments. Additionally, these machines can be used in locations with limited charging infrastructure, necessitating batteries with extended operational ranges and quick recharging capabilities. Many compact equipment applications also have stringent weight and space limitations, requiring battery systems that fit within these constraints without compromising performance.

One Manufacturer’s Solution: The Battery Technology Partner Program

Recognizing these complexities, Vanguard has implemented a collaborative approach to integration support through its Battery Technology Partner Program. This program brings together key players across the battery technology and manufacturing sectors to develop tailored solutions for the compact equipment industry.

“Our partners are specialized companies that provide significant engineering expertise to the small to medium-sized OEMs they work with by designing systems or subsystems. Through the technology partners, OEMs have a place to not only source components but also access to engineering expertise they wouldn’t have in-house,” says Nick Moore, Director of Product Management for Electrification at Briggs & Stratton. “With this engineering support, the OEMs can integrate different types of technology systems that may have otherwise been out of reach.”
 

Collaborative Development

At the heart of the program is the idea of collaborative development. By partnering with experts in battery technology through the program, OEMs can bring their battery-powered concept to life. This collaboration extends beyond traditional supplier relationships, fostering a deeper integration of expertise and resources. The Technology Partner program helps to bridge the gap by engaging engineering experts with different specialties and service locations around North America for lower-volume projects. 

Customization and Flexibility

A standout feature of the Technology Partner program is its focus on customization. Recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach to electrification is not viable for the diverse compact industry, Vanguard works with partners to develop specialized battery solutions. This customization ensures that each battery system meets the specific power, durability and size requirements of different machinery and applications.

Integration and Support

Successful electrification requires seamless integration of battery systems into existing machinery. The Technology Partner program provides comprehensive support to OEMs, from initial design and prototyping to integration and after-sales service. This support ensures that the transition to electric power is as smooth and efficient as possible for OEM customers.

Addressing the Needs of the Rental Industry

The Technology Partner program is particularly beneficial for equipment used in the rental industry, which presents unique challenges and requirements. Rental equipment must be versatile, durable and capable of withstanding varied and often intensive use by multiple operators in different environments. Electric solutions need to be robust, easy to maintain and use, and quick to recharge to maximize uptime and return on investment.

With a focus on customization, the Technology Partners ensure that battery systems are tailored to meet the specific needs of rental equipment, providing reliable performance across a wide range of applications. The program’s emphasis on real-world testing and validation means that battery solutions are rigorously evaluated under diverse conditions, ensuring their reliability and durability in rental scenarios. Additionally, the comprehensive support and integration services offered by the program help rental companies smoothly transition to electric power, minimizing downtime and maintenance challenges.

“Electrifying equipment is very new to a lot of manufacturers. That’s where we come in with more than 20 years of experience in electrifying equipment. We show OEMs how to put all the pieces together to make it work,” said Ryan Walker, Territory Manager for Kraft Mobile Systems, the first solutions provider to join the program. “With this model, we can offer OEMs more sophisticated and streamlined solutions that might otherwise have been out of reach for them.”
 

Looking Ahead

As the compact equipment industry continues its journey towards electrification, programs like the Vanguard Technology Partner program will play a crucial role in overcoming the inherent challenges that come with this evolving technology. Whether it’s helping to design a piece of electric equipment or repowering an existing gas-powered machine to take battery power, the Technology Partner program allows OEMs to meet their electrification goals by combining engineering expertise, geographic proximity and cutting-edge battery technology to create a solution that is above-and-beyond what any one company would be able to accomplish alone. 

As the compact equipment industry continues on its journey toward more sustainable, efficient power options that fit the needs of a diverse industry, programs like the Technology Partner program offer a promising model for addressing these challenges and advancing the compact equipment industry toward a more sustainable future.

“The goal is to continue to add partners to make sure that we're covering as many different industries and regions as possible. We don't want OEMs to struggle in finding access to the technology,” says Moore. “Between the changing emissions regulations and focus on pollutant elimination, electrification is not a passing trend. We see this initiative evolving and growing along with that emphasis on electrification.”