BMW 7 Series Now Sports GKN’s Sideshaft System

GKN Driveline is going a long way in the automotive arena. Just recently, its lightweight VL3 constant velocity joint (CV Joint) system has been featured in the BMW 7-series.

The system boosts torque capacity by up to 27 percent without increase in packaging size. Offered in four sizes, automotive manufacturers alternatively can choose to maintain torque capacity but reduce package size by around 10 percent.

In a statement, Karl Berger, GKN Driveline Senior Director Product Technology of Constant Velocity Joints, said that GKN already established the standard for rear CV joints with their predecessor technology, but the VL3 sets the new level. He added that they have developed CVJ that is lighter, more efficient, and stronger and delivers more torque in smaller packaging. “The VL3 joint helps automakers achieve a refined, luxury driving experience. We are delighted that it is debuting on the BMW 7 Series.”

Featuring a plunging distance of 18mm, the VL3 is the leading choice for a rear constant-velocity sideshaft for medium working angles with low axial forces and best-in-class minimum backlash. It employs a Monobloc Tubular Shaft and Face Spline connection to the wheel hub to attain huge packaging and weight advantages, as well as noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) behavior benefits. As a result, the driver and occupants enjoy a refined driving experience.

Beginning in 2009, GKN has pioneered the highly-efficient CounterTrack principal on fixed joints, and the VL3 joint further builds on this success by launching the technology on a rear sideshaft. The system employs new and advanced track geometry with four pairs of opposed ball tracks instead of three, enabling it to transmit more torque to wheels within the same packaging space. Further improving the joint is the use of a diaphragm-boot sealing system, instead of a standard boot and cap, which helps minimize weight, grease volume and axial packaging.

Berger continued that GKN has pioneered CV joint development for over six decades. These new innovations provide enhancements in every area of importance for automotive manufacturers, including efficiency, strength, weight, and endurance, helping to create a dynamic driving performance and optimizing power delivery from the engine to the wheels. “We have also minimized backlash, which leads to a refined driving experience.”

Due to its cutting-edge features, GKN’s VL3 sideshaft system has recently been included in the list of finalists for the Automotive News 2016 PACE Award.