CREDIT: AMSTED AUTOMOTIVE
The automotive industry is at a turning point in powertrain development. Consumer needs are playing a larger part, shifting focus to efficiency and performance, similar to internal-combustion engine vehicles. Next-generation electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrain systems are being developed now to meet these demands, and the latest Amsted Automotive multi-speed shift technology provides improved energy efficiency with increased performance.
Amsted Automotive's new Multi-Speed Shift Technology will launch in an EV production vehicle in 2026. This multi-speed shift technology uses integrated One-Way-Clutch (OWC) functionality to optimize function, efficiency, range, and cost in EV and HEV drivetrains. This technology can provide flexible system solutions to achieve smooth and quick shift transitions with simplified shift controls compared to conventional technology. A white paper on the technology is available for download.
This technology uses proven Amsted Automotive Dynamic Controllable Clutch (DCC) technology already used in a production EV all-wheel-drive vehicle. Amsted Automotive's Multi-Speed Shift Technology can be used in both parallel-axis and co-axial powertrain systems. One variation eliminates friction clutches for reduced drag, improved efficiency, and improved sustainability metrics.
Advantages of the Amsted one-way clutch over dog-clutch style systems include:
- No blocked or interrupted shifts
- No ratcheting during shifts
- Simplified system controls
- Additional functionality such as park-lock
- Easier calibration, reducing engineering loads