Garrett and HanDe Sign Strategic Partnership, Including Series Production Award to Accelerate Electrification of Heavy-Duty Trucks with Advanced E-Axle Systems

Core Insights - Garrett Motion Inc. and Shaanxi Hande Axle Co., Ltd. have signed a strategic agreement to co-develop advanced electric beam axle systems for medium and heavy-duty trucks, marking a significant milestone in the electrification of commercial transport [1][5][7] Company Overview - Garrett Motion is a leading differentiated automotive technology provider with a 70-year history of innovation in the automotive sector, focusing on turbocharging and electric propulsion technologies [10] - The company has established a strong presence in China since 1994, with advanced manufacturing facilities in Shanghai and Wuhan, and a dedicated R&D team of over 200 specialists [8][9] Strategic Partnership Details - The partnership aims to integrate Garrett's high-speed e-motor and inverter technology into HanDe's axle and transmission platforms, targeting production for 2027 [5][6] - Initial manufacturing will occur in Xi'an and Wuhan, with test fleets expected to begin field trials in 2026 as part of a global rollout strategy [6] Technological Advancements - Garrett's technology promises significant reductions in size and weight compared to current industry benchmarks, leading to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleets through reduced energy use and maintenance [4] - The collaboration aims to minimize the use of rare earths and critical minerals, supporting sustainable sourcing and contributing to the local electrification ecosystem [4][7] Market Impact - The strategic partnership includes a multi-year production award from major Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturers, supporting both domestic output and international expansion [6] - There is strong interest from global commercial vehicle OEMs and fleet operators in adopting Garrett's E-powertrain solution due to its tangible TCO savings and sustainability benefits [4][7]