- Technologies include Dynamic Controllable Clutch (DCC) and Electro-Mechanical E-axle Disconnect system, Differential Disconnect, and Overrunning E-Axle Disconnect technology
- Full disconnect and locking functionality
- DCC addresses EV torque-management needs
- Amsted Automotive began volume production of the E-axle disconnect for EVs in 2021
- Available for passenger car, light truck, and commercial EVs
Southfield, MI – Ushering in the new era of electric vehicle propulsion systems is well under way, yet it’s not without its challenges. At the 2022 CTI Symposium USA – taking place May 18-19 in Novi, Michigan – Amsted Automotive’s John Jennings, Director of Innovation and eMobility, will give a presentation on advanced multi-functional clutch technology for EV drivetrain disconnects. Reinvention of the EV drivetrain requires technology that can be optimized for function, efficiency, range, and cost, and Amsted Automotive is leading the transition with its Dynamic Controllable Clutch (DCC), an Electro-Mechanical E-axle Disconnect system. This provides seamless AWD and 4WD disconnect and quick, reliable shifts.
The patented DCC allows the driveline system to engage and disengage the drive axles while conserving energy and maintaining on-road and off-road capabilities. The controllable disconnect clutch and actuation technology has full disconnect and locking engagement, with additional aptitude in controlled bi-directional one-way-clutch operation. It can be combined with multi-speed shift, hill-hold, and park-lock features to create multi-functional clutch solutions for this next generation of EV drivetrains. A comprehensive white paper on the Electro-Mechanical E-axle Disconnect solution and its technologies is available at AmstedAuto.com.
Another important consideration for Amsted Automotive was to ensure the system provided quick and reliable shifts between power, regeneration, and coasting modes. And design flexibility had to be adaptable at multiple locations between the eMachine and the wheels.
There are electric pickups currently in production utilizing Amsted Automotive DCC technology, which can extend an EV’s range by 10-20%, depending on the application.