BorgWarner to supply P2 hybrid solutions for Changan’s new transmission

BorgWarner has entered into an agreement with Changan Automobile to supply its triple-clutch P2 drive module and electro-hydraulic control unit for the Chinese automaker’s new-generation hybrid transmission. BorgWarner expects to achieve mass production of its P2 modules on the new model of Changan in 2020. 

State VI emission standard will be officially implemented in 2020, but many local Chinese governments started executing the new standard in July 2019 to combat the increase in air pollution. This, together with stricter fuel consumption regulations and the dual-credit scheme (which restricts fuel consumption of petrol cars), has brought challenges for OEMs.

As the traditional combustion technologies are unable to meet stricter emission requirements, development of innovative hybrid technologies has become a focus for the auto industry. The highly integrated P2 drive module and electro-hydraulic control unit offer improved fuel economy and emissions, which are working for better system efficiency and performance. Its scalable, modular design covers different torques, is available with an optional E-motor and is compatible with high voltage PHEV, high voltage HEV and 48V systems. The compact, lightweight S-wind motor offers high torque density, especially suitable for P2 hybrids that are expected to become the mainstream of hybrid architectures. 

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Changan,” said Dr. Volker Weng, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems. “Being awarded these contracts reinforces BorgWarner’s position in the global HEV market. It also validates the system integration ability of our modules. BorgWarner is committed to providing high-quality products and services to   our customers and developing next-generation transmission technologies for more sustainable mobility.” 

Cost-effective hybridisation
By placing the electric motor directly between the internal combustion engine and the transmission, BorgWarner says its on-axis P2 drive module delivers cost-effective hybridisation by being compatible with existing vehicle platforms. The innovative P2 solution offers the possibility of integrating up to three clutches, including a disconnecting clutch, which allows the system to decouple from the engine for pure electric driving, enabling customers to achieve both their individual fuel-efficiency and performance goals. In addition, BorgWarner can supply the electrohydraulic controls for actuating the wet clutches, giving customers the option to choose individual components or a complete system. 

BorgWarner’s P2 drive module is also available in an off-axis configuration. This design places the electric motor parallel to the main axis and connects the system via one of the company’s durable chain technologies, ensuring maximum torque transfer. 

The company’s P2 drive modules give OEMs the flexibility to place the electric motor where they have space in existing architectures, either on- or off-axis. By using BorgWarner’s award winning S-wind wire-forming process to create the motor, the P2 drive module produces high power and torque densities in an extremely compact package.

The innovative manufacturing process allows BorgWarner to produce smaller, more powerful high-voltage electric motors on a mass scale and will help drive growth in the hybrid and electric vehicle market. In addition, unlike other off-axis P2 solutions that use a belt to attach the system, BorgWarner’s off-axis drive module delivers top performance from connecting the P2 via one of its best-in-strength and durability, quiet, chain drive technologies. Moreover, the solution offers stop/start, regenerative braking and supplemental electric propulsion, and is available for 48-volt and high-voltage hybrid systems. 

In addition to the P2 drive modules, BorgWarner’s extensive product lineup includes solutions for all potential hybrid drive architectures, along with integrated clean and efficient propulsion systems for combustion and electric vehicles. Committed to advancing sustainable mobility, the company continues to work internally and with industry partners to develop next generation propulsion technologies. 

David Leggett, Automotive Editor at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, said:  "This collaboration is a way to save costs and position both companies to capitalise on China's rapid BEV market growth over the next ten years. GlobalData forecasts that by 2030 annual production of BEVs in China will be approaching six million vehicles per annum - a six-fold increase on the current level. China will be at the heart of future global growth for electric vehicles (EVs).

“News of the agreement between Toyota and BYD to develop EVs for the Chinese market makes sense for both. They can share costs and utilise their respective strengths.

“China-based BYD is an electric battery technology specialist with very good knowledge of the Chinese marketplace and needs, while Toyota is a global OEM with proven strengths in vehicle development and can bring its systems to bear in areas such as manufacturing, quality and safety.

"Further, China is the world's largest automotive market and Beijing is creating the conditions for a ramp-up in 'New Energy Vehicles' such as plug-in electric hybrids and fully-EVs.”