GKN Develops next-generation EV powertrain

Powertrain supplier GKN has announced that it has developed a lightweight eAxle which is being positioned as the most advanced electrified driveline technology in the world.

GKN is planning to reveal full details of the system at the Frankfurt motor show which is scheduled to be held later this month. The company says the eAxle is a lot lighter and smaller than the powertrains that are currently available in the market. It also offers the advantage that it can be easily adapted to front, rear or four-wheel drive applications.
The eAxle has a two-speed transmission, which has been finetuned to provide maximum efficiency. It also comes with GKN’s renowned Twinster torque vectoring technology, that is already being used in models like the Ford Focus RS, Range Rover Evoque and Vauxhall Insignia GSi.

GKN says the new technology can be used for a number of applications for the technology, but it is ideal for use in smaller EVs due to its low weight and compact size. One main barrier to largescale adoption of electric cars is that electric powertrains are normally quite heavy and cannot be really used in smaller cars. From the installation perspective, the new unit can help save time as it features single-piece installation.

GKN has not divulged details about which automotive manufacturers have expressed interest in the technology, but the company’s all-wheel-drive systems have been previously supplied to Porsche and BMW earlier.