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ZF Touts 2-Speed Electric Drive System
Germany’s ZF Friedrichshafen AG says its new 2-speed electric drive is more efficient than current single-speed units.
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Germany’s ZF Friedrichshafen AG says its new 2-speed electric drive is more efficient than current single-speed units.
The new 2-speed device integrates a 140-kW electric motor with power electronics and a shifting element. Croatian EV specialist Rimac Automobili and some Formula E teams also use 2-speed transmissions.
ZF says its 2-speed system consumes less energy than a 1-speed transmission, which the company claims can extend an EV’s driving range by 5%. Shifts occur at 70 kph (43 mph).
Further gains could be achieved by communicating with a vehicle’s navigation and battery management systems to optimize shifts based on topography, driving route and battery charge status, according to the supplier. Alternatively, a 250-kW electric motor and/or high-capacity battery could be used to enhance performance.
ZF says the 2-speed transmission’s compact design allows it to be used in various passenger vehicles, ranging from compact models to top-end performance cars. Software algorithms can be changed via over-the-air updates.RELATED CONTENT
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