GKN Automotive accelerates eDrive development to meet rising demand
July 30, 2021
GKN Automotive is accelerating its development of next generation eDrive technologies in response to the rapidly increasing global demand for electric vehicles (EVs). The new systems, utilising and harnessing 800V technologies, are already at advanced stages of development and being tested in real-world conditions.
Future eDrive technologies are expected to deliver many benefits for EV owners, including faster charging times and superior performance. The greater systems efficiencies they bring will also lead to an increased driving range, something which is currently a key obstacle for consumers wanting to make the switch to a battery-electric car. Efficiencies could also lead to car makers opting to use smaller batteries, thus reducing vehicle cost, complexity and weight.
“Global demand for EVs is accelerating fast and now is the perfect time for GKN Automotive to underpin its leadership in eDrive systems through next-generation technologies,” stated Liam Butterworth, CEO, GKN Automotive. “These high-tech 800V systems will create faster charging cars with better battery range, improved driving performance and even greater efficiencies. GKN Automotive intends to continue delivering an increasingly electrified future.”
The company’s rapid development of next-generation eDrive systems is being enhanced through working in Formula E, a single-seater racing championship for electric cars, as a partner to Jaguar Racing. This atmosphere means constant testing to improve efficiency, performance and extending the range of batteries, all of which is able to benefit road customers down the line. Developments currently being honed for Jaguar Racing will likely be available on road cars in just three years.
