BorgWarner has released details of the sprag one-way clutch, it supplies to FCA, for the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the first US mass-produced plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and the industry’s first PHEV minivan. Depending on driving mode, BorgWarner’s one-way clutch enables the secondary motor to generate electricity or work with the traction-drive motor to transfer torque through the differential to the front wheels.
“The one-way clutch plays an essential role in this PHEV design, helping the minivan achieve up to 84mpg equivalent in combined driving with all-electric power,” said Robin Kendrick, president and general manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems. “The innovative use of our proven technology improves efficiency, providing drivers with the performance they expect and the fuel economy they crave. We are pleased to contribute our technology to this ground-breaking design.”
During all-electric operation, BorgWarner’s one-way clutch enables both the traction-drive motor and secondary motor to generate torque for improved acceleration and performance. When the gasoline engine powers the vehicle, the one-way clutch spins freely, allowing the secondary motor to generate electricity for improved battery and fuel efficiency.
BorgWarner’s one-way clutches provide superior engagement performance and high efficiency for a variety of transmissions. Available in a wide range of sizes, package configurations and torque capacities, BorgWarner’s one-way clutches feature optimized materials, geometry and processing to meet customer specifications
BorgWarner also supplies numerous technologies designed to increase engine efficiency, improve fuel economy and reduce emissions for FCA US V6 Pentastar gasoline engines, including advanced exhaust gas recirculation modules, thermostatic valves, silent engine timing chains, variable cam timing technology and variable force solenoids.