LEANING INTO ELECTRIFICATION WITH AXLES, INVERTERS, AND EDRIVES: WE NERD OUT ON GKN AUTOMOTIVE

EV Channels Review

This episode of Batteries Included features a deep dive into GKN Automotive's role in the EV powertrain landscape with Ben DeLand, Director of Electrical Hardware Engineering. GKN, a long-standing supplier of driveline components, is heavily invested in electric drive systems, offering integrated three-in-one units (inverter, motor, gearbox) as well as individual components. Their extensive experience in all-wheel drive systems and understanding of vehicle dynamics, particularly lateral dynamics, positions them well for the evolving EV market. The discussion highlights GKN's pioneering work with early EVs like the BMW i8 and their current supply of components for vehicles such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E (AWD secondary axle) and Fiat 500e (primary drive). Key technical topics covered include the advantages of silicon carbide and emerging gallium nitride in inverters, the shift towards 800-volt architectures for increased efficiency, and the thermal management challenges in high-performance EVs. While GKN primarily serves automakers, the conversation touches upon the complexities of homologation for a potential retail component market. The ideal EV drivetrain, according to GKN's perspective, involves a dual-motor rear axle for torque vectoring and agility, complemented by a permanent magnet front motor with a disconnect system for efficiency.