Finnish companies Ahola Group and Donut Lab have launched Cova Power, a new joint venture to bring electrified smart trailer technology to the heavy goods transport sector. The trailers use Donut Lab’s in-wheel motors and software platform to retrofit existing trailers. This technology reduces emissions and operational costs by decreasing diesel consumption by up to 54 percent and total energy use by up to 30 percent, according to studies from the University of Oulu in Finland.

Cova Power trailers are powered by Donut Lab’s compact and lightweight C-motor family. These motors reduce the pulling power required from tractor units, improving energy efficiency and lowering emissions for heavy trailer loads. The retrofit approach allows existing fleets to be converted with a relatively low investment and minimal changes to vehicle inventory. The first conversions will be deployed across Ahola’s logistics network in Finland, the Nordics, and parts of northern, central, and eastern Europe, with global commercial availability from a production facility in Estonia.

The technology offers enhanced vehicle control and safety by providing driven axles that improve handling in adverse conditions such as ice, strong winds, and steep hills. Efficiency gains from fuel and energy savings translate into significant cost reductions for operators, with fast payback on investment due to the simplicity and affordability of the conversions. This innovation aligns with EU2030 emission reduction targets and supports sustainable logistics.

Cova Power’s first working unit will be showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January 2026, marking a major step towards more sustainable freight transport solutions. This venture brings proven electric motor innovation together with scalable retrofit technology to make low-emission freight transport more accessible and cost-effective.

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