Background
The SYSIX – Smart and Efficient Energy Systems for Offroad mobile machines for remote locations project develops next-generation solutions to enable the electrification of non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) in weak-grid and off-grid environments. By integrating data-driven and physics-based modelling with experimental validation, SYSIX will create scalable frameworks for optimizing energy use, improving reliability, and extending machine lifetime while lowering total costs of ownership.
Coordinated by Tampere University and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the consortium unites leading Finnish companies to pilot real-world demonstrators, develop technology roadmaps, and establish new business models for sustainable mobile machinery.
Goal
The goal of the SYSIX project is to enable the reliable, cost-effective and sustainable use of electrified mobile machines in weak- and off-grid environments by new and validated solutions. The measurable main goals are:
- Developing and validating system-level energy and heat management systems and control methods that improve the reliability and efficiency of electric mobile machines in challenging environments. The goal is to demonstrate a significant improvement in operating time and reduction in unplanned downtime.
- Creating an intelligent and adaptive Battery Management System that uses real-time diagnostics and predictive control strategies to ensure safe operation and to improve the battery lifetime. This should be demonstrated in both laboratory and field tests.
- Designing and demonstrating a working prototype of a modular off-grid charging station and validating its industrial applicability, system capabilities, and reliability to enable efficient charging of machinery without adequate grid infrastructure.
- Developing digital twins and data-driven optimization tools at the machine, system and operating levels to support energy management, design, and decision-making. The goal is to demonstrate that the tools improve predictability and support product development and service businesses.
- Building a common technology and business model base for international growth by producing validated research, experimental data and common roadmaps for businesses to use in developing new products, services, and business models. By the end of the SYSIX project, most of the businesses in the consortium will recognize concrete paths for further development and commercialization based on results from SYSIX.
After the project, the achievement of the goals is evaluated.
Impact
SYSIX will strengthen the capabilities and competitiveness of Finnish industries by enabling cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable operation of electrified machinery in weak-grid and off-grid conditions. The results will strengthen Finland’s global leadership in zero-emission and intelligent NRMM technologies, supporting the targets of the National Mobile Machine Growth Strategy 2035.
The Public Research Project SYSIX will advance machine management and energy-supply solutions for weak-grid and off-grid environments by applying digital twins, data- and physics-based modelling, and AI. These technologies will improve the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of remotely operated systems and enable breakthroughs in energy logistics. SYSIX will build on previous research and existing trial platforms, expanding them to meet the needs of participating companies.
Funding source
Business Finland Co-Innovation
Main funder
Business Finland
Partners
Tampere University (TAU), ENS, ATME unit, IHA – Innovative Hydraulics and Automation Lab
Tampere University (TAU), ITC, Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics Group
VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd, Transport technologies research area and Knowledge-driven design, industrial circular economy
12 industrial partners: Aurora Powertrains, Danfoss, Epec, Ioncor, Kempower, Kontram, Lumikko, Metso, Normet, Parker, Ponsse and Proventia
Co-operators
VTT