Hybrid powertrain and modular rear drive unit for same
AssigneeGM Global Technology Operations LLC
InventorsShawn H. Swales, Joel M. Maguire, Goro Tamai, Peter J. Savagian
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A modular rear drive unit for a hybrid vehicle comprises a torque distributing unit, an electric motor-generator, and a gearing arrangement operatively connecting the electric motor-generator with the torque distributing unit. The modular rear drive unit also includes an integrated housing and rear cradle supporting and surrounding the torque distributing unit, the electric motor-generator, and the gearing arrangement. The integrated housing and rear cradle operatively mounts to the vehicle body.
Claims20
A modular rear drive unit for a hybrid vehicle having a vehicle body, the modular rear drive unit comprising:
- a torque distributing unit providing differential action;
- an electric motor-generator;
- a gearing arrangement operatively connecting the electric motor-generator with the torque distributing unit;
- an integrated housing and rear cradle supporting and surrounding the torque distributing unit, the electric motor-generator, and the gearing arrangement;
- and
- wherein the integrated housing and rear cradle operatively mounts to the vehicle body.
A powertrain for a vehicle having a vehicle body, front wheels and rear wheels, the powertrain comprising:
- an engine with a crankshaft;
- a first motor-generator drivingly connected to the crankshaft via an endless rotatable device;
- a transmission having a transmission input member driven by the crankshaft and a transmission output member;
- a driveshaft operatively connected with the transmission output member;
- a modular rear drive unit comprising:
- a torque distributing unit operatively connectable with the driveshaft and configured to transfer torque from the driveshaft to rear half shafts that are connectable to the rear wheels;
- a second motor-generator drivingly connected to the torque distributing unit and positioned at least partially rearward of the rear half shafts;
- a gearing arrangement operatively connecting the electric motor-generator with the torque distributing unit;
- an integrated housing and rear cradle supporting and surrounding the torque distributing unit, the second motor-generator, and the gearing arrangement;
- and
- wherein the integrated housing and rear cradle directly mounts to the vehicle body.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.