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Vitesco Technologies, a leading international supplier of modern drive technologies, has announced the delivery of its EMR3 axle drive system for Honda’s new CR-V e:FCEV, set to be marketed in the U.S. and Japan later in 2024. This marks the first integration of Vitesco Technologies’ drive system into a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). The innovative drive system promises mature technology, energy efficiency, and impressive driving dynamics.
Key Highlights
- First Integration in FCEV: This is the inaugural use of Vitesco Technologies’ drive system in a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle.
- Proven Technology: The EMR3 axle drive system brings energy efficiency and attractive driving dynamics without significant changes.
- Fuel Cell Bypass Valve: Vitesco’s Fuel Cell Bypass Valve effectively controls the air flow to and from the car’s fuel cell stack.
- Innovative Features: The Honda CR-V e:FCEV combines a long range and quick refueling capability with an electric-only driving range of up to 60 kilometers from a 17.7 kWh high-voltage battery.
- Additional Utility: The vehicle includes a 110 V electric outlet capable of supplying up to 1,500 W, making it a potential power source during outages or for outdoor activities.
Vitesco Technologies will supply its EMR3 (Electronics Motor Reducer, 3rd Generation) integrated axle drive to Honda for its new CR-V e:FCEV. This vehicle will be marketed in the U.S. and Japan later in the year. It represents the first time a Vitesco Technologies’ drive system has been integrated into a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle.
Alongside the axle drive, Honda will incorporate Vitesco Technologies’ fuel cell stack bypass valve to manage the air flow to and from the fuel cell. This valve is based on Vitesco’s extensive experience with combustion engine air flow management, proving essential for modern fuel cell systems.
Although production numbers for the CR-V e:FCEV may not rival other CR-V models, the vehicle showcases significant innovation. It combines the long range and quick refueling of a fuel cell system with the capability to drive up to 60 kilometers purely electric thanks to a 17.7 kWh high-voltage battery. Additionally, the car includes a 110 V electric outlet capable of powering devices up to 1,500 W, making it useful as a clean power source during outages or for outdoor activities.
Thomas Stierle, Member of the Executive Board and head of the Electrification Solutions division of Vitesco Technologies, stated, “We are proud to deliver our proven EMR3 axle drive system to a car that combines so many innovative elements of clean mobility. It is good to see our drive technology fitting so seamlessly into Honda’s pursuit of carbon neutrality.”
Technical Specifications and Manufacturing
The EMR3 axle drive system integrates up to three drive system components in one unit: electric motor, power electronics, and reducer. For the Honda e:FCEV, Vitesco Technologies will supply an electric motor and power electronics version without a reducer. The compact dimensions, low weight, high efficiency, and ease of vehicle integration make the EMR3 one of the most successful Tier 1 axle drive systems on the market. By the end of March 2024, more than 900,000 EMR3 units had been delivered globally.
For the CR-V e:FCEV, the EMR3 was developed by experts in Europe, China, and Japan, providing 174 horsepower and 229 lb.-ft. peak torque. With a full hydrogen tank, the vehicle is expected to have a range of over 600 kilometers, plus an additional purely electric range of more than 60 kilometers. Manufacturing has started at Vitesco Technologies’ site in Tianjin, China.
Industry Impact
Gunter Muehlberg, Head of Product Management High Voltage Drives at Vitesco Technologies, emphasized the significance of hydrogen fuel cell systems: “Hydrogen fuel cell systems offer an attractive option for stress-free, long-distance sustainable mobility. Our axle drive systems work smoothly and without noteworthy changes in an electric car with a fuel cell system. This is another future proof for our successful drive technology.”
Company Background
Vitesco Technologies, headquartered in Regensburg, Germany, is a leading international developer and manufacturer of cutting-edge drive systems for sustainable mobility. With a focus on clean, efficient, and affordable mobility, the company offers intelligent system solutions and components for electric, hybrid, and internal combustion drive systems. In 2023, Vitesco Technologies generated sales of around €9.23 billion and employed approximately 35,500 employees across 50 locations.
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