Big win for GKN

GKN Driveline has developed an electric drive system for plug-in hybrid vehicles that will go in to production in 2019 on a global European vehicle platform.

It is a big win for the company that has been advancing the development of its eAxle technology since 2002. The new module integrates a water-cooled electric motor and inverter with a single speed eAxle reduction gearbox.

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

The system generates a maximum 65kW of power and can deliver up to 2,000Nm of torque to the rear wheels. The complete eDrive module measures 300mm high and 325mm wide and weighs 54kg, making it around 20mm narrower and 2.5kg lighter than comparable systems.