UK based GKN Driveline on Tuesday announced it had become the first Tier One supplier to deliver a complete all wheel drive (AWD) system to a vehicle manufacturer.
In just two years it designed, developed and started production of the intelligent all wheel drive systems for the new Fiat Chrysler Autombiles global platform that underpins the Fiat 500X and Jeep Renegade.
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GKN Driveline president of engineering, Peter Moelgg, said: “Growing demand for AWD is a global phenomenon. Consumers worldwide want smaller, more fuel-efficient cars that can do everything larger vehicles can. Automakers need responsive suppliers who can overcome the tight packaging and cost constraints and produce drivelines that engage their customers in new ways. We are delivering on our strategy of developing intelligent driveline systems that enhance both efficiency and drivability.”
Global programme director Hannes Prenn added: “This is a milestone programme for GKN in our evolution as a driveline system integrator. This is the first time a supplier has been responsible for the design, development and production of a complete all wheel drive system.
“With all manufacturing, engineering and software development in house, GKN Driveline is the only Tier One that could take such a tightly integrated AWD system from concept to production – and in just 24 months.”
GKN said the short time to market was enabled by close networking of its global development centres, a streamlined change management process and its responsive in house software teams.
The FCA platform sources the complete driveline, from transmission to wheel, from GKN, including AWD, AWD Disconnect and front wheel drive variants. Every part of the system, from the propshafts to the rear differential module to the sideshafts, is designed by GKN and manufactured in the company’s factories worldwide.
To meet the tight packaging targets of a compact SUV and small city car, GKN integrated a number of key features of the driveline system, saving space and optimising cost and efficiency. Instead of a standard power transfer unit (PTU), the supplier developed a monobloc housing that fully integrates the propshaft’s constant velocity joint.
“This is a new technical solution and a remarkable piece of engineering, which involved close inter-functional development,” said Prenn. “The result is a high-performance system that offers optimum efficiency, weight and packaging. The arrangement also yields superior NVH characteristics, helping to create a more refined driving experience.”
The same hardware is able to fulfill requirements for different brands and classes of vehicle, from city cars to off roaders. GKN tunes the software to ensure the system is able to meet different brands’ specific requirements. A city car version may require low drag torques and torque biasing while a model intended for off road use requires high traction and torques.
