GKN develops hybrid/EV electric drive axles

GKN Driveline has designed a new range of electric-drive axles for use in pure electric vehicles and for converting conventional vehicles into hybrids.

Using products available within its driveline portfolio, GKN said it has been able to design, validate and launch a variety of electric-drive axle products that can incorporate passive and active limited-slip differentials, torque-vectoring technology, and disconnect systems to maximize fuel economy and driving performance.

A GKN electric-drive axle for use in the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 allows the front-wheel-drive vehicles to have all-wheel-drive performance, supplemental traction and torque, hybrid fuel economy, and the ability to operate in “all electric” drive mode with zero emissions. The axle is capable of delivering 1500Nm of torque to the vehicle’s rear wheels.

Peugeot electric drive axles incorporate GKN Driveline’s proprietary disconnect clutch technology, which facilitates on-demand, all-wheel-drive (AWD) and contributes to  overall all-terrain functionality and fuel efficiency.  The Peugeot HYbrid4 system has an electric motor with a maximum capacity of 27kW and a maximum torque of 200Nm. Other units currently being developed have ratings of up to 2500Nm. Several of those vehicles will be ready for volume production by 2012.

Dr. Ray Kuczera, engineering director – Americas for GKN Driveline, said the company has produced more than 200,000 units for various vehicle manufacturers since 2002.