GKN : eDrive technology named PACE 2017 finalist

GKN Driveline has been named as an Automotive News 2017 PACE Award finalist for its innovative electric driveline technology.

PACE judges have selected the co-axial electric axle (eAxle) system that debuted on the acclaimed Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid as one of next year's finalists. The technology has also launched on the Volvo S90 and will feature on other vehicles across the automaker's SPA platform, as well as on future applications with other manufacturers.

GKN Driveline Chief Executive Officer Phil Swash said: 'GKN has a proud history in the development of leading electric driveline technologies and we are pleased that PACE has recognised this particular sophisticated eAxle system. It is testament to the hard work of our talented engineering and supplier chain teams and further recognition of GKN as an innovation leader.'

He added: 'This is the fourth year in a row that GKN have been recognised by PACE judges and we hope to emulate the success of the past two years, when three separate GKN technologies have won awards.'

Designed to minimise packaging and maximise performance, the co-axial eAxle on the Volvo XC90 sets new standards in eDrive sophistication. Developed to fit in the same space as the Rear Drive Module on the XC90 AWD driveline, the eAxle solution gives Volvo the ultimate flexibility to meet the customer demand mix between all versions of the XC90 driveline.

The XC90's eAxle delivers nominal output torque of 2400Nm in a package that measures 263mm x 310mm x 293mm and weighs just 15kg. The small footprint of this higher output new eAxle saves space, making integration into global vehicle platforms simpler while also enhancing driveability.

The nomination continues GKN's strong run with PACE, regarded as the Oscars of the automotive supply chain. After being nominated in 2014 for the Twinster system on the Range Rover Evoque, GKN won PACE Awards in the two following years for the two-speed eAxle on the BMW i8 and the VL3 sideshaft system on the BMW 7 Series. In addition, GKN won a PACE Partnership Award for its work with Ford on the Focus RS, whilst the B-SUV system on the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X was named as a finalist.

The Automotive News 2017 PACE Awards final will be held in Detroit in April next year.