Loading...
Fersa has introduced Fuel Efficient Generation 3, the latest evolution of its low-friction wheel-end technology for heavy-duty vehicles.
Presented at IAA Transportation 2026 in Hannover, the new generation combines developments in lubrication, coatings, materials, bearing cage architecture and wheel-hub design to further reduce mechanical losses at the wheel end.
According to Fersa, Generation 3 delivers a further 10% reduction in friction compared with Generation 2, reaching a 65% improvement compared with the baseline solution.
Fersa's Fuel Efficient technology was first introduced in 2024 with the objective of reducing internal friction while maintaining the durability required for heavy-duty vehicle applications.
The first generation focused on precision geometry, materials, lubrication and sealing. Generation 2 introduced further optimisation of bearing geometry, lubrication and sealing systems.
Generation 3 expands the approach by focusing more broadly on tribology and overall wheel-end efficiency.
The latest developments include:
These improvements are intended to reduce energy losses while maintaining durability and reliability under demanding operating conditions.
Wheel-end efficiency can contribute to overall vehicle efficiency by reducing mechanical resistance between the wheel, bearing and hub assembly.
For buses and coaches, where vehicles operate for long hours and cover significant annual mileage, reducing friction losses at component level can contribute to lower overall energy consumption.
The technology is being developed for heavy-duty OEM applications and can be adapted to different vehicle architectures and technical requirements.
Generation 3 was developed using Fersa's internal simulation, manufacturing and laboratory testing capabilities.
The company states that it can reproduce wheel-bearing VECTO test cycles internally. However, external certification by an approved third party remains a subsequent stage of the validation process.
Following the launch, Fersa plans to focus initially on development projects with heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers, adapting the technology to specific vehicle platforms.
The company positions Generation 3 as the latest stage in its roadmap to reduce wheel-end friction and improve the efficiency of future heavy-duty vehicles.
