PACE Awards recognize GKN's new generation of intelligent driveline technologies

AUBURN HILLS, MI -- Oct. 30, 2014: GKN has been named as a finalist in the Automotive News 2015 PACE Awards for two new fuel savings technologies. A panel of independent industry judges have shortlisted an innovative two-speed eAxle for hybrid and electric vehicles as well as an all-wheel drive disconnect system for small cars.

GKN Driveline's Senior Vice President for Engineering, Rob Rickell, said: "These awards recognize how GKN innovations are helping make a new generation of hybrid and small all-wheel drive vehicles better to drive and more efficient. PACE Awards highlight the role that suppliers play in the auto industry's evolution and the major technological trends. GKN has developed a new generation of intelligent driveline systems that will make hybrids and small cars more capable and efficient."

GKN Driveline president, Americas, Bob Willig said: "Being named a PACE Award finalist is a huge honor for anybody as committed to innovation as we are. We're grateful to our friends and colleagues at automakers who have supported these developments and our entry into the awards. When so much of our innovation and development work for customers remains confidential, it's great to be able to participate in PACE."

By giving electric motors additional gear ratios, GKN's two-speed eAxle enables higher running speeds, exciting acceleration and improved electric range. The technology also enables associated systems such as the motor to be downsized.

GKN's All-Wheel Drive Disconnect system for small cars enters production in Q3 of 2014. The intelligent system disconnects the rear rotating masses during steady state cruising, enabling small cars to benefit from all-wheel drive dynamics and stability while optimizing fuel efficiency.

Winners of the 2015 Automotive News PACE Awards will be announced in April 2015.