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GKN Driveline - New AWD Coupling Debuts on Infiniti FX Series

PARIS, FR. Oct. 6, 2008 - GKN Driveline Torque Technology is providing the latest generation of its all-wheel drive (AWD) coupling to the new Infiniti FX to improve performance while trimming the component’s weight by 30 percent.

GKN Driveline supplied its coupling technology to the previous generations of the Infiniti FX, providing improved durability and performance. For 2008, Infiniti challenged the company to manufacture a unit that was smaller and provided reduced friction (drag torque).

The resulting AWD coupling from GKN Driveline is not only lighter, but has approximately 80 percent less drag torque than the previous model. Integrated into the Infiniti FX’s transfer case, the coupling helps boost the vehicle’s overall fuel economy.

GKN Driveline’s coupling is an Electromagnetic Control Device (EMCD) that directs the driveline’s power flow, providing optimum AWD performance when needed and rear-wheel drive performance when it is not. Up to 50 percent of the vehicle's power can be transferred from the rear wheels to the front wheels if necessary to optimize traction.

Driving situations calling for optimized power between rear and front

wheels include: accelerating from a stop, enhancing control in turns and adjusting to poor, varied or unpaved road conditions.

“Nissan and its premium Infiniti brand vehicles have long been important customers for our AWD coupling products,” noted Graeme Walford, managing director of GKN Driveline Torque Technology. “This new application has been a challenging development. GKN Driveline is grateful to be a continual partner on the latest FX models."

GKN Driveline also supplies the rear sideshafts for the new Infiniti FX50.

Other customers are looking at GKN Driveline’s EMCD coupling technology to enhance vehicles driveline performance and driving dynamics, especially for AWD vehicles that are derived from front-wheel drive platforms.

“Our re-engineered EMCD products also made a successful launch on the Nissan Murano. We are now working on applications with four new customers in Europe, the USA and Asia,” Walford added. “We are making the EMCD lighter and more efficient to improve fuel economy in AWD vehicles. Increasingly our interaction with customers is focused on enhancing vehicle dynamics, electronics and system integration."