GKN readies new 2-speed e-axle for 2020

Driveline-enhancement technology is hot these days, with Tier 1s rolling out new axle-disconnect, electric axle and light-weighting innovations in rapid cadence. In the vanguard of this trend is GKN Driveline, whose masterpiece Twinster dual-clutch differential imparted the 2016 Ford Focus RS and Range Rover Evoque dynamic torque vectoring functions across the entire speed range. That was followed by the company's eTwinster, bringing e-axle technologies pioneered in the Volvo XC90 T8 and other hybrids.

Now comes eTwinsterX, which leverages those learnings and integrates a compact 2-speed transmission into a unit aimed at broad vehicle applications-from city cars to plug-in SUVs, high-performance hybrids and EVs and the upcoming wave of electrified light trucks in North America. The system is engineered for front-drive, rear-drive and all-wheel drive configurations and is claimed to be the first e-axle that is fully off-road capable. It can incorporate electric motors from 80 to 120 kW (107 to 161 hp) and peak torque to 147 lb·ft (200 N·m).