Amsted Automotive Group supplies E-axle disconnect technology to Rivian EVs

Amsted Automotive Group says it has developed an E-axle solution that launched in the new electric vehicle lineup from Rivian Automotive. The Dynamic Controllable Clutch (DCC), an electro-mechanical E-axle disconnect system, addresses the need for new torque-management solutions for EVs, providing seamless shifting technology and performance, while significantly extending the battery range, the company says. Amsted Automotive adapted the technology for Rivian EVs.

The patented DCC, as an electro-mechanical E-axle disconnect solution, enables the driveline system to efficiently engage and disengage rear electric drivetrains from their drive axles while conserving energy and maintaining on-road and off-road capabilities. DCC uses electric actuation to create substantial packaging and system efficiencies by eliminating complex hydraulic systems, the company says. It magnetically latches in each state, reducing the energy requirements to keep AWD and 4WD systems engaged. This application of mechatronics enables shift times of less than 20 milliseconds. Additionally, EV range can be extended by 10-20%, depending on the application, Amsted says.

BorgWarner has agreed to acquire the electric vehicle solution, smart grid and smart energy businesses of Hubei Surpass Sun Electric (SSE). The transaction has an enterprise value of up to RMB 410 million (approx. $59.36 million).

Headquartered in Xiangyang, Hubei province, China, SSE’s electrification business supplies patented electric vehicle charging solutions to customers in China and more than 70 other countries. SSE says it has delivered over 50,000 charging points and has led the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of more than 250 charging station sites. SSE’s charging and electrification capabilities in China are expected to complement BorgWarner’s existing capabilities in Europe and North America, the companies say. SSE’s 2022 revenues for the electrification business are expected to be approximately RMB 180 million (approx. $26.06 million).