- GKN Automotive extending its leadership of eDrive technologies by rapidly developing next generation systems in response to increasing EV demand
- All-new technology will employ 800V systems
- Future eDrive systems will speed up charging times, enhance battery range, reduce weight and improve performance
- Rapid development of next generation systems, accelerated further through partnership with Jaguar Racing in the ultra-competitive Formula E series
GKN Automotive, the global leader in drive systems, is accelerating its development of next generation eDrive technologies in response to the rapidly increasing global demand for electrified vehicles.
These future systems, utilising and harnessing state-of-the-art 800V technologies, are already at advanced stages of development and being tested in real-world conditions. GKN Automotive’s global experts are now working with the world’s leading automotive manufacturers to make these advanced eDrive systems a production reality.
Future eDrive technologies, using 800V technology, promise many benefits for EV owners including faster charging times and superior performance. The greater systems efficiencies they bring will also lead to an increased driving range – currently a key obstacle for consumers wanting to make the switch to a battery electric car. Efficiencies could also lead to car makers opting to use smaller batteries, reducing vehicle cost, complexity, and weight.
Liam Butterworth, CEO GKN Automotive “Global demand for EVs is accelerating fast and now is the perfect time for GKN Automotive to underpin its leadership in eDrive systems through next-generation technologies.
“These high-tech 800V systems will create faster charging cars with better battery range, improved driving performance and even greater efficiencies. GKN Automotive intends to continue delivering an increasingly electrified future”
GKN Automotive’s rapid development of next generation eDrive systems is being enhanced through working in Formula E as a partner to Jaguar Racing. Constant testing to improve efficiency, performance and extending the range of batteries in the ultra-competitive world of electric motorsport creates a direct link from race to road. Cutting-edge developments currently being developed for Jaguar Racing will likely be available on near-future road cars in just three years.
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ABOUT GKN AUTOMOTIVE
GKN Automotive is the global leader in drive systems. A global automotive technology company that pioneered electric drive systems and is now driving the future of transportation. It is the trusted partner for most of the world’s automotive companies, specialising in developing, building and supplying market-leading driveline systems and advanced ePowertrain technologies.
GKN Automotive’s world leading Driveline division demonstrates strength in depth, with an extensive portfolio of products that combine value with technical expertise. The technologies span high-volume low-cost vehicles to top end premium cars with complex all-wheel drive driving dynamics. These world-class products are being constantly refined and improved for global customers.
The ePowertrain division offers solutions for all electrified vehicles. It is a go-to technology partner for world leading vehicle manufacturers creating the ultimate electrified driving experience. Its ability to fully integrate eDrive systems derives from its all-wheel drive legacy and leadership. The first system was fitted to a production car nearly 20 years ago and GKN Automotive eDrive technologies are now powering over 1.5 million electrified vehicles worldwide.
GKN Automotive is headquartered in the UK, operating in 20 countries and employing 27,500 people worldwide.
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