GKN automotive president of engineering, Peter Moelgg said: “We want to make plug-in hybrids a simple upgrade for consumers and manufacturers. With our systems now proven in halo hybrid sports car programmes and premium SUVs, automakers are working with us to launch eAxle technology in a broader range of vehicles. Innovations by our hardware and software engineers will place the performance and efficiency benefits of plug-ins within the reach of many more motorists.”
The single-speed design of the eAxle is said to minimise weight to 20.9kg while optimising efficiency, installation space and costs. A two-staged geartrain is claimed to provide up to 2000Nm torque and 65kW power for a dynamic pure-electric mode and balanced wheel torques for all-wheel drive mode. An electromechanically actuated dog clutch disconnects the electric motor at higher vehicle speeds and an open coupling minimises rotating losses when disengaged. Precision engineering of the gear teeth and other acoustic measures mean noise emissions are minimal.
A typical C-segment plug-in hybrid could have an engine output of around 100kW, GKN says its eAxle will supply an additional 65kW of electrical power. It is also said that the eAxle can improve 0-100kph acceleration times by several seconds, provide a useable pure electric range and reduce a vehicle’s CO2 emission rating to less than 50g/km.
Front-wheel drive vehicle platforms can integrate GKN’s compact, lightweight single-speed eAxle modules into the vehicle’s rear assembly to provide a combination of plug-in hybrid and electric all-wheel drive functionalities.
