GKN Driveline has developed a new electric drive system for PHEVs, which will start production in 2019 on a global platform from a European vehicle manufacturer.

GKN supplies its eAxle for the BMW i8 and the Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine. The company has produced more than 300,000 units at its manufacturing facilities in Europe and Japan.

Tighter integration of electric drivelines aims to increase system efficiency and give automakers more packaging and assembly options.

The new module integrates a water-cooled electric motor and inverter with a single speed eAxle reduction gearbox. It measures 300 x 325 mm and weighs 119 lbs. The system generates a maximum 65 kW of power and can deliver up to 2,000 N·m (1,475 lb-ft) of torque to the rear wheels.

“This is the first all-in-one eDrive system to replace external wiring with a bus bar and to eliminate unnecessary mechanical interfaces,” said GKN Driveline exec Peter Moelgg. “The result is an eDrive system with higher power density that is simpler to install.”

“These complex drivelines require the higher levels of system integration that GKN eAxle electric drive modules deliver,” said GKN CEO Phil Swash. “By pioneering the development of these systems, GKN is positioned to help automakers turn electric propulsion into exciting new hybrid all-wheel drive experiences.”

SEE ALSO: Q&A with GKN’s Advanced Engineering Director

Source: GKN Driveline via Green Car Congress