GKN Automotive is accelerating its eDrive development programme, to keep pace with the growing demand for its portfolio of compact electric driveline systems. Its latest G400 eDrive unit, which is scalable for a variety of torque classes, is undergoing extensive testing at its annual winter testing event in Arjeplog, Sweden, using Tesla Model 3 and Fiat Ducato platforms as testbeds.
GKN Automotive has pioneered advanced eDrive technologies since 2002, developing experience of systems integration and production that is unmatched in the industry. In July 2019 the company produced its one millionth electrified driveline system and sales of its expanding eDrive portfolio are on track to grow 141% year-on-year, including six new major mass production projects in 2020. By 2025, the company expects to be producing around one million eDrive units per year for global markets.
Inverter integration testing
The next phase of GKN Automotive’s electrification strategy includes the development of the 3-in-1 G400 eDrive System, currently undergoing testing in Arjeplog with a variety of inverter applications and in-house developed eMotors. This is in preparation for the forthcoming integration of Delta Electronics Inc. components into integrated 3-in-1 eDrive units.
Hannes Prenn, COO of GKN Automotive ePowertrain, commented: “The application of our G400 eDrive module into two very different vehicle platforms showcases how we are evolving and refining our scalable electric driveline technologies. As our order book continues to grow rapidly, we are accelerating the development of our standardised range of eDrive units to cater for a variety of platform sizes and torque requirements.
“To meet this increased demand, we have enhanced our inverter development capabilities by establishing a partnership with power electronics specialist Delta Electronics Inc. We have also commissioned an in-house eMotor production line at our European eDrive production facility. By integrating our transmission and eMotor technology with Delta’s inverters into modular units, GKN Automotive is decreasing costs and reducing component packaging for automakers.”
The collaboration with Delta Electronics Inc. will enable the rapid acceleration of GKN Automotive’s next generation compact modular eDrive systems of power classes from 80kW to 155kW.
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SOURCE: GKN Automotive
