GKN’s New CV Joint System Makes Vehicles Lighter

Leading automotive driveline technologies supplier, GKN Driveline, has recently developed a new family of lightweight constant velocity (CV) joint systems that enable rear-wheel drive platforms save more than 4kg of weight. The core element in the automotive industry’s CO2 reduction strategies are higher performance drivelines with less rotating mass.

According to Karl Berger, GKN Driveline Senior Director of Constant Velocity Joints, GKN innovations make vehicles better to drive and more efficient. He noted that the new system represents a step forward in efficiency, weight, performance and refinement for premium rear-wheel drive cars.

The all-new VL3 CV joint boasts torque capacity by up to 27 percent without increase in packaging size. Offered in four sizes, the VL3-33ISM variant now comes with a torque capacity of 3300Nm in a package that was previously capable of supplying only 2600Nm. Moreover, the VL3 CV joint system can maintain performance while reducing size by around seven percent. Overall, the sideshaft system reduces the weight of each vehicle set by up to 4.2kg.

Boasting a plunging distance of 18mm, the VL3 is claimed to be the best 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 NVH behavior benefits. And the result? A thrilling, more refined driving experience like never before.

GKN started pioneering the efficient CounterTrack principal on fixed joints in 2009, and the VL3 joint builds on this success. The VL3 Monobloc joint employs new and cutting-edge 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. In addition, the joint is further improved through the use of a diaphragm boot sealing system, which helps to dramatically reduce grease, weight, volume and axial packaging.

Berger added that GKN has pioneered the development of CV joints for over six decades, noting that these new innovations offer enhancements in every area of importance for vehicle manufacturers, including weight, efficiency, endurance and strength, helping to ensure a dynamic driving performance and enhanced power delivery from the engine to the wheels. “We have also minimized backlash, which leads to a refined driving experience.”

The VL3 joint has already entered series production and is slated to be on the road in new vehicles from next year. Just recently, it has been named as an Automotive News 2016 PACE Award finalist.