Power management company Eaton has been selected by a manufacturer of electric vehicles (EVs) to supply a unique ELocker differential system for use on a new plug-in electric hybrid (PHEV) SUV.
Unlike traditional PHEVs, which use an electric motor and internal combustion engine to power all the drive wheels, the new model leverages an electric motor to power the front and rear wheels, or an optional internal combustion engine (ICE) driving the front wheels.
“The ELocker had to be designed to be compatible with fluid in an electric drive, which is lighter and has a lower viscosity than axle and transmission oils,” said Mark Kramer, business unit director, ePowertrain, Eaton’s Mobility Group. “To meet this challenge, Eaton engineers made adjustments to traditional ELocker designs by utilizing premium designs, materials, and coatings.”
The Eaton ELocker is an electronic locking differential designed for drivers who want full control and traction on demand. Its net-forged gears offer the strength and durability needed for off-road and recreational driving and electronic controls provide driver-selectable operation and added reliability over similar air-controlled products.
By simply pressing a dash switch, the differential sends all available torque equally to the left and right wheels, providing maximum traction to overcome challenging terrain.
Filed Under: Technology News