BorgWarner’s GenV AWD goes on BMW’s first FWD car

BorgWarner has said that its GenV all-wheel drive (AWD) coupling for the BMW Group’s all-new 2 Series Active Tourer is helping deliver improved traction, stability and handling while minimising losses. The electro-hydraulically actuated AWD coupling automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels of the BMW brand’s first-ever front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle.

In addition to optimising traction and vehicle dynamics under almost all conditions, the GenV AWD technology enhances the vehicle’s driveline efficiency and features an efficient mode for reduced driveline losses. The technology is available in the BMW 220d xDrive Active Tourer as well as in the 225i xDrive Active Tourer since November 2014, helping both models set new benchmarks in efficiency and dynamic performance.

“We are proud to expand our successful relationship with the BMW Group and provide improved traction, stability and handling for their first front-wheel drive vehicle with our latest AWD technology,” said Dr. Stefan Demmerle, president and general manager, BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems. “Our GenV coupling features market-leading advanced electronic controls to meet automakers’ customized requirements in terms of driving behavior and fun-to-drive characteristics.”

BorgWarner says it adapted the GenV integrated electronic control module to match BMW’s unique driving characteristics and its demanding specifications for improved traction and handling. The advanced software calculates and delivers pre-emptive as well as immediate response with high-torque accuracy based on data supplied by the on-board electronics to provide exceptional dynamic performance. Without any driver input, the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch distributes power between the front and rear axles automatically. In addition, the GenV AWD coupling improves fuel economy by providing only the requested amount of torque to the rear axle, optimised for nearly all driving situations. If necessary, full locking torque is available at any given time and speed, depending on road conditions and vehicle load distribution.

For the first time, BorgWarner’s GenV coupling is equipped with the Efficient Mode functionality featuring an intelligent valve that manages the clutch lubrication to significantly reduce losses. In this mode, the coupling provides better fuel economy when AWD function is not needed. BorgWarner’s AWD coupling features a lightweight and compact design for reduced vehicle complexity and simplified integration into the powertrain. As a result, the GenV delivers improved traction as well as extremely agile, precise and stable handling.