Magna presents new 800-volt eDrive at the CES
According to Magna’s announcement, the new drive generation is smaller, lighter and more efficient. Specifically, the manufacturer cites a weight of 75 kilogrammes, a 20 per cent reduction in height compared to the previous e-Drive generation, and an efficiency of up to 93 per cent in real driving conditions.
Another new feature is the ability to rotate the eDrive in the vehicle by 90 degrees to the drive axle. According to Magna, this should improve system integration in the front and rear of the vehicle. This is a “further development that is unique in the industry,” Magna states. The unit can not only be used as the sole front or rear drive, but also as a secondary drive for an electric all-wheel drive with two motors. An optional decoupling unit is also available for this purpose in order to disconnect the secondary drive when it is not required.
Electric drive for vehicles in the C, D and E segments
Magna does not go into the functional principle of the new eDrive generation in the press release. However, the optional decoupling unit suggests that it is a permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM). Mechanical decoupling is not necessary for separately excited synchronous machines or asynchronous machines (both without permanent magnets in the rotor). Magna has been producing such a decoupling unit since last summer for “a German premium OEM” – which is likely to be Mercedes-Benz.
The new Magna electric drive system is suitable for vehicles in the C, D and E segments. The unit delivers a peak output of 250 kW and a maximum torque at the axle of 5,000 Newton metres.
Magna has not yet named a launch customer for the new drive generation in the press release for the CES premiere of the eDrive. It is also left open as to when the new generation will be used in series production vehicles.
“We are steadfast in our commitment to creating exceptional driving experiences while supporting a sustainable future,” said Diba Ilunga, President of Powertrain at Magna. “Our next generation eDrive is a true embodiment of this pledge, showcasing unparalleled sustainability in both its product design and production methodology. Through seamless integration of our systems, we have successfully reduced our reliance on aluminum and heavy rare earth materials, resulting in a significant reduction of CO₂ emissions during production by approximately 20% compared to previous generation eDrives.”
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