Electric Vehicles (EV) drivetrain systems are being redefined—creating next-generation propulsion systems—as the EV market grows rapidly. This next generation of EV propulsion systems will need to be further optimized for function, efficiency, range and cost as the EV market scales up. This includes the need for new solutions to facilitate seamless eAWD disconnect with the ability to quickly and reliably shift between disconnected, forward propulsion, and regen or reverse modes. Design flexibility is also required for adaptability at multiple locations between the eMachine and wheels.
In addition to disconnects, next generation EV drivetrains will also require more sophisticated solutions for electronic park-lock, hill-hold and multi-speed shifting, combining the functions of historical ICE transmissions and drivelines. These technologies can be applied to EV passenger cars, light truck and commercial vehicles.
Means, an Amsted Automotive division, has developed controllable disconnect clutch and actuation technology with full disconnect and locking functions, plus the additional functionality for controlled bi-directional one-way-clutch operation. This technology, when applied to EV drivetrains, can provide novel and flexible system solutions for EV disconnects for both eAWD and primary electric drive unit (EDU) applications. The control and flexibility of this technology can also enable the same disconnect function and advantages for the primary EDU.
Additional capability can also be combined with multi-speed shift functions, hill-hold and park-lock features to create novel multi-functional clutch solutions for the next generation of EV drivetrains.