American Axle & Manufacturing says it has developed a new Independent Rear Drive Axle (IRDA) for GM’s full-size SUVs including the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade.
AAM and GM worked together to replace the prior generation rear beam axle with a newly designed 3-mount independent rear drive axle module. The new design features a light-weight aluminum carrier housing and a low-offset hypoid gearset to provide improved efficiency and industry leading noise, vibration and harshness performance.
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“AAM and GM partnered to develop a new axle that is incredibly efficient and increases passenger comfort while still maintaining vehicle performance,” said David C. Dauch, AAM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Developed and tested at our Advanced Technology and Development Center in Detroit, this system provides top-notch performance coupled with unparalleled durability.”
Offered in a 9.5-inch or 9.76-inch, the IRDA comes standard with a mechanical limited slip differential, providing enhanced traction and trailering performance up to 8,400 pounds.
AAM also supplies front and rear axles for GM’s full size, light-duty and heavy-duty pickup trucks. The company was recently named a GM Supplier of the Year for the fourth consecutive year.
