Sideshafts

Sideshaft systems for hybrid and electric vehicles

Electrification is producing new technical requirements for electric vehicle sideshafts. GKN Automotive offers a range of solutions, from larger articulation angles to address higher ground clearance, to increased stiffness for better drivability, and higher efficiency that translates into battery cost savings.

GKN Automotive’s modular solutions and drive system design expertise takes care of the details that create additional value. That’s why we are the leader in hybrid and electric drivetrains.

Rear sideshaft for battery electric vehicles

By combining the new wheel side RX8.1 joint with the new RDO8.1 joint, GKN Automotive is able to meet OEMs’ changing demands for rear driven BEVs. Offering greater efficiency and strength, it has been carefully designed and engineered to meet the needs of today’s customer.

VL3 sideshaft for small angle RWD applications

Our award-winning VL3 sideshaft provides a solution for high-performance RWD vehicles. The VL3 plunging joints in combination with their compact sealing system and a Monobloc Tubular Shaft provide exceptional packaging, low weight and enhanced Noise, Vibration, and Harshness behaviour.

The outboard joint can be combined with GKN Automotive’s new face spline design, offering additional functional and performance benefits from the wheel hub connection.

UF3-MTS-AAR sideshaft system for FWD cars

This sideshaft system features the proven and value driven UF-type fixed joint on the outboard side, a robust and cost-effective baseline solution for up to 50° maximum articulation angle. On the differential side, in combination with the Monobloc Tubular Shaft, an AAR plunging joint gives enhanced Noise, Vibration, and Harshness performance, delivering the smooth driveability and robust performance that are the main drivers for the application.

Front sideshaft: SXL8.1-26 – MTS – AARi2600LP

GKN Automotive’s front sideshaft solution delivers exceptional efficiency and Noise, Vibration, and Harshness performance. Featuring a lightweight Monobloc Tubular Shaft design, it also provides increased articulation for enhanced steering capability to squeeze into those tight parking spaces.

Sideshaft: SX8.1-33 - Bar - AARi3300

The combination of a balanced Countertrack™ SX joint and low plunge resistance AAR joint makes this GKN Automotive sideshaft solution suitable for high efficiency applications. It also features a shaft damper for exceptional Noise, Vibration, and Harshness performance, while a compact FJ boot reduces the amount of grease required.

Front sideshaft: SX8.1-56 - MTS - AARi-3700

Delivering a high efficiency solution for front-axle applications, GKN Automotive’s sideshaft features spline and flange interfaces that can be tailored to OEM requirements. It also offers low plunge resistance, while its Monobloc Tubular Shaft combines low weight with excellent Noise, Vibration, and Harshness performance.

Ballspline: a unique layout solution

GKN Automotive’s ballspline technology has been designed to work seamlessly with unique suspension and powertrain layouts. By combining a plunge unit that’s integrated into the shaft with two highly efficient fixed joints, it’s able to effortlessly maximise angle and plunge capabilities.

Sideshaft systems for sports utility vehicles

The latest generation of sport utility vehicles combine high levels of ride comfort with some degree of off-road capability. GKN Automotive’s modular sideshaft systems make it simple to construct high-performance solutions for new suspension designs with greater wheel travel requirements.

GKN Automotive’s popular solution combines Countertrack™ with a ballspline plunge module that provides the high articulation and long plunge capability these applications require. The ballspline also ensures the highest possible level of Noise, Vibration, and Harshness refinement.