New GKN Driveline electric drive module supports small car hybridization

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Oct 18, 2016, 10:48 ET

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- GKN Driveline has developed a complete electric-drive system for plug-in hybrid vehicles that helps automakers more easily incorporate eDrive systems into their vehicle lines, eliminates the integration of individual components from multiple suppliers and provides a superior hybrid experience for consumers. The system starts production in 2019 on a global platform from a European vehicle manufacturer.

GKN Driveline has developed a complete electric-drive system for plug-in hybrid vehicles that helps automakers more easily incorporate eDrive systems into their vehicle lines, eliminates the integration of individual components from multiple suppliers and provides a superior hybrid experience for consumers. The system starts production in 2019 on a global platform from a European vehicle manufacturer.

Tighter integration of electric drivelines improves system efficiency and gives automakers more packaging and assembly options. The new module integrates a water-cooled electric motor and inverter with a single-speed eAxle reduction gearbox. The system generates a maximum 65kW of power and can deliver up to 2,000Nm of torque to the rear wheels.

GKN Driveline Chief Executive Phil Swash said: "A new generation of vehicles is making hybridization integral to platform strategies. These complex drivelines require the higher levels of system integration that GKN eAxle electric drive modules deliver. By pioneering the development of these systems, GKN is positioned to help automakers turn electric propulsion into exciting new hybrid all-wheel-drive experiences."

The complete eDrive module measures just 300mm high and 325mm wide and weighs 54kg, making it around 20mm narrower and 2.5kg lighter than comparable systems. GKN's systems expertise ensures that, despite significant differences in the acoustic signatures of the inverter, motor and gearbox, the overall system delivers a smooth, near-silent electric-driving experience.

Peter Moelgg, Chief Executive of GKN Driveline's eDrive and AWD business, added: "Automakers increasingly want complete eDrive systems from suppliers, rather than sourcing the different elements from different companies. This is the first all-in-one eDrive system to replace external wiring with a bus bar and to eliminate unnecessary mechanical interfaces. The result is an eDrive system with higher power density that is simpler to install."

GKN has been advancing the development of eAxle technology since 2002 and has produced more than 300,000 units at its manufacturing facilities in Europe and Japan. The company was awarded Official Porsche Technology Partner status for its contribution to the plug-in hybrid Porsche 918 Spyder program. GKN launched the world's first two-speed eAxle in the plug-in hybrid BMW i8 and also supplies the eAxle on the Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine PHEV program.

ABOUT GKN
GKN plc is a global engineering group. It has four divisions; GKN Aerospace, GKN Driveline, GKN Powder Metallurgy and GKN Land Systems, which operate in the aerospace, automotive and land systems markets. Over 55,000 people work in GKN companies and joint ventures in more than 30 countries. GKN is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: GKN) and recorded sales of GBP7.7 billion in the year to 31 December 2015.

ABOUT GKN DRIVELINE
GKN Driveline is the world's leading supplier of automotive driveline technology and systems. As a global company serving the world's leading vehicle manufacturers, GKN Driveline develops, builds and supplies an extensive range of automotive driveline technologies – for use in the smallest ultra-low-cost car to the most sophisticated premium vehicle demanding the most complex driving dynamics. GKN Driveline is a leading global producer of CVJ Systems, AWD Systems, Trans Axle Solutions and eDrive Systems and operates in 23 countries at 46 locations employing approximately 25,500 people.

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SOURCE GKN Driveline