GKN Automotive has been honored with an Automotive News PACE award for its two-speed eAxle technology, showcased on the class-redefining BMW i8 plug-in hybrid supercar.
The Automotive News PACE award, bestowed for more than 20 years, is acknowledged around the world as the industry benchmark for automotive innovation.
“The two-speed eAxle technology is a great example of our ability to push automotive engineering forward, integrating complete system expertise with software and tuning capabilities into a new generation of hybrid vehicles,” said Andrew Reynolds Smith, CEO of GKN Automotive. “It takes a tremendous amount of teamwork to bring leading-edge technology to the market, and this award is a reflection of the great cooperation between our global team and BMW, enabling us to deliver innovation for its ground breaking vehicle.”
The innovative eAxle gives the electric drive motor the capability to ensure no compromise in acceleration, assisted top speed and pure electric range, improving both driving dynamics and C02 emissions. It is the first application to enable electric power to boost the vehicle’s performance across its entyre speed range as previously, electric and axle-split hybrids have used a single-speed transmission, which disconnects at certain speeds to prevent the motor overspinning.
“Car manufacturers are not only looking to make their vehicles more efficient; they want to create new driving experiences,” Peter Moelgg, GKN Automotive President of Engineering said. “Our expertise in driveline efficiency and electric drive systems is helping to bring a new generation of electric drive vehicles to life. We are proud that the PACE judges have recognized that with the two-speed eAxle.” – PR News Wire