It can be used in electric and hybrid vehicles of all different sizes and boosts both efficiency and tractive power. "Today’s state-of-the-art electric vehicles use a relatively simple transmission with only a one gear ratio," says IAV developer Erik Schneider. "Compared with a single-speed solution, our two-speed transmission significantly improves the electric vehicle’s hill-climbing ability while also giving it far better acceleration and reducing consumption under standard conditions."
IAV’s developers were chosen from over 150 competitors. The Innovation Award is given to no more than five contenders every year by the cities of Berlin and Brandenburg in partnership with private and public businesses.
Concentrated Expertise Unmatched Anywhere Else in the World
An interdisciplinary IAV team, including specialists in e-machines, transmission mechanics, hydraulics, electronics as well as software and algorithm development, has been working on DrivePac for two years. IAV experts are currently building the first prototype which will begin testing in early 2012. Many of the company’s customers are following these tests very closely. "Even at this stage, DrivePac has already piqued the interest of our North American customers," Schneider reports. This technology is available in both Europe and the United States. The grant will be used to help a PhD or degree candidate develop new innovations for electric vehicle development.
About IAV: As a leading engineering partner for all major car manufacturers and suppliers, IAV offers over 25 years of experience and a unique range of competencies. IAV sees the world through the eyes of a car enthusiast, so solutions are developed for the entire vehicle that are not only perfect in their technology, but also feasible and sustainable. With over 4,000 IAV employees and state-of-the-art equipment, project support is ensured from the initial idea to the start of production.