ABB ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus – High-Fidelity Industrial Drive Simulation Software

Introducing ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus for Digital Drive Testing

ABB recently unveiled the ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus, a high-fidelity software-in-the-loop (SIL) solution. This tool enables engineers to run actual low-voltage drive control firmware in a fully virtual environment. As a result, industrial automation teams can test and simulate drive operations without relying on physical hardware.

By using this virtual drive, companies across multiple sectors can design, configure, and validate their systems digitally. This approach reduces project risks and prevents delays caused by waiting for physical devices. Moreover, early-stage testing accelerates development, shortens commissioning time, and lowers overall costs, allowing faster and more reliable product launches.

ABB introduces ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus, a software-in-the-loop solution enabling engineers to simulate and test low-voltage drives digitally. Enhance factory automation, reduce project risk, accelerate development, and improve system reliability with high-fidelity virtual drive simulation.

High-Fidelity Simulation for Accurate Drive Behavior

The ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus ensures precise emulation of drive behavior with microsecond-level electromagnetic transient (EMT) accuracy. Customers can simulate grid conditions, load variations, and process-level control exactly as they would with physical drives. The solution also provides ready-to-use virtual drive modules for testing applications and system-level integration.

This capability is particularly valuable for industrial enterprises seeking energy efficiency and cost reduction through low-voltage variable speed drives (VSD). By combining virtual development with real hardware verification, ABB’s solution supports a seamless workflow from initial configuration to final commissioning.

Integrating Digital and Physical Workflows

According to Adrian Daeppen, ABB’s Global Product Manager for High-Power Motion Control, “Our simulation portfolio reflects a model-based engineering vision, linking digital simulations with actual performance. Customers can leverage trusted ABB technology to drive innovation and gain a competitive edge.”

The ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus can operate virtually as an inverter, active front end, or DC/DC chopper. Its flexible architecture allows for scalable, customizable simulations. Engineers can replicate real-world scenarios on a PC, optimizing system design before deploying physical drives.

Delivering Verified Drive Technology Core

As highlighted by Kexin Hua, ABB High-Power Motion Product Manager, “This solution provides more than a model—it delivers the core of ABB drive technology. With verified infrastructure and benchmark models, ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus supports risk reduction, faster development, and accelerated innovation.”

Furthermore, ABB’s solution incorporates IP security features, enabling partners to expand service offerings. Virtual drives can be bundled with existing services and licensed for end-customer applications, opening new business opportunities.

Practical Applications and Industry Impact

ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus can be used in various industrial automation scenarios, including factory automation, energy-efficient motor control, and process optimization. By simulating entire systems digitally, companies achieve safer, more predictable outcomes while reducing dependency on physical testing hardware.

At the upcoming SPS 2025 in Nuremberg (November 25–27), ABB will demonstrate ACS880 Virtual Drive Plus live. Attendees can visit Booth 4/420 to experience hands-on simulations and consult with technical experts.

ABB Motion: Driving Efficiency and Sustainability

ABB Motion delivers global motor and drive solutions that enable industries to operate efficiently and sustainably. With over 140 years of expertise, ABB provides solutions for electrification, automation, and digitalization. Its portfolio spans energy-efficient drives, electric powertrains, and industrial automation systems, helping companies improve performance, safety, and reliability across over 100 countries.

Through the combination of innovation, digitalization, and sustainable engineering, ABB helps industrial clients achieve operational excellence while reducing environmental impact.