GKN Automotive has
begun testing its GTD19 battery electric vehicle, which features a world-first
powertrain combo of a two-speed transmission and torque vectoring on the front
axle. Based on a Jeep Renegade, the GTD19 is equipped with an optimized
two-speed ‘Seamless shift’ eTransmission and smart shifting strategy, which has
the potential to extend range and provide more torque, better acceleration and
a higher top speed.
Efficiency is also
boosted by the prototype’s eAxle coaxial format, whereas its eTwinster torque
vectoring system provides improved stability and dynamic performance. The tech
used in the GTD19 test vehicle is similar to the two-speed system used in last
year’s GTD18 car, based on a Mercedes-AMG GLA 45. The latter demonstrated the
benefits of an eTwinster rear axle e-motor, two-speed eTransmission and torque
vectoring via twin clutches paired with a mechanical Twinster on the front
axle.
The GTD19’s setup
replaces the Renegade’s internal combustion engine with a 120 kW GKN electric
motor that produces a peak torque figure of 3,500 Nm and
vectoring of up to 2,000 Nm to the front wheel requires it most.
Compared to rear-
or all-wheel drive configurations, front wheel drive vectoring is said to be
more helpful due to the relative ease of breaking traction in a FWD car. So not
only can the Twinster system keep the front wheels in check during
acceleration, but it can also correct the understeer yaw movement during
cornering at speed, by prioritizing torque delivery to the outer wheel.
As one the world’s
leading suppliers of automotive driveline technology and components, GKN has
been pushing its advanced eDrive tech on the market ever since 2002. It has
already supplied complete eDrive systems to successful plug-in hybrid programs
for OEMs, including BMW, Mitsubishi, Porsche and Volvo.
