Overhead charging cable management for DC and MCS charging points

Space-saving, safe and easy to use. High-power. Zero obstacles.

The e-tract DC horizontal is an automated overhead cable management and guidance system designed for electric trucks, coaches, and buses at DC and MCS charging stations. By routing the high-power charging cable overhead, the system keeps cables clear of vehicle paths and off the ground. This helps prevent cable damage caused by ground contact, vehicle overrun, and accidental collisions, while supporting a safer and more reliable charging infrastructure in depots, charging yards, and charging parks.

The charging cable is delivered directly to the vehicle from above, either in a straight line or through guided movement. As a result, no additional charging corridor or lateral pivoting space is required, maximizing the available maneuvering area. The system's smooth cable extension and retraction keep charging areas organized and unobstructed, improving traffic flow and reducing maintenance requirements. The e-tract DC horizontal can be installed on trusses, canopies, hall ceilings, or as a standalone structure.

Benefits

Maximizes maneuvering space through overhead cable management
Reduces maintenance costs with lower cable wear and protection against cable theft
Extensively tested in the igus laboratory with more than 35,000 operating cycles
Improves site safety by keeping cables off the ground and out of vehicle paths
Supports efficient traffic flow in busy charging depots and parks

Request More Information

Why overhead cable management is crucial for electric trucks and buses

An e-truck or e-bus charging yard is a high-traffic working environment with tight maneuvering spaces, time pressure, and operationally critical charging points. This makes the charging cable a critical component, particularly in terms of handling, safety and traffic flow. Overhead cable management keeps the high-performance charging cable out of the way, guides it in a controlled manner and protects it – which is crucial for three reasons:

Increased safety

Reduced risk of tripping, crushing and collision, as well as a lower risk of cable damage.

Improved traffic flow

Space for maneuvring remains clear, with neat cable guidance at the charging point – fewer obstructions and quicker docking/disconnection.

Higher availability

Protected, precisely guided cable. Less wear and tear, fewer unplanned breakdowns and lower maintenance costs.

How overhead cable management works

The overhead charging cable system is a motorized cable management solution that supports automated charging by guiding the charging cable through an overhead track system. The cable travels within a horizontal guide channel and is moved by a motor-driven conveyor mechanism.

To minimize wear and extend service life, the charging cable is continuously supported along its entire length and moved with minimal friction, reducing mechanical stress during operation. Integrated sliding profile rails provide smooth horizontal movement, ensuring especially gentle cable handling throughout the charging process.

When charging is required, the system automatically extends the cable and positions it precisely at the designated charging point. Once charging is complete, the cable is inspected, carefully retracted, and securely stored within the system.

By keeping the charging cable elevated and off the ground, the e-tract DC horizontal enables safe, organized power delivery while maintaining clear driving and maneuvering areas. The result is improved operational efficiency, reduced cable wear, and enhanced protection against accidental damage.