Rear Axle System With Multifunctional Variability

A new rear axle system should rival the traditional multi-link rear suspension and short-long arm rear axle designs with regard to the performance required. A modular rear axle that combines high expectations of the chassis with active steering and an electric traction module for simple application to different versions? ZF shows with the modular rear axle system for passenger cars how that works.

- Knut Heidsieck & Klaus Wallgren

INITIAL SITUATION AND BACKGROUND

Requirements that apply to modern automobile manufacturing and vehicle platforms in general also apply to chassis systems in particular: To minimise the development, application and investment scope required for the individual model, body and drive versions, implementation should be as simple as possible based on a flexible modular system. After all, OEMs must meet the continuing increase in cost pressure while at the same time satisfying key technology and market trends with their vehicles.

Customers demand an increased variety of versions within one model range – they want to choose between hatchback, fastback, station wagon, coupé, convertible, van, SUV and SUV coupé. The drive system situation is similar, even today, far more than just one option is called for: Besides internal combustion engines, there is an increasing demand for a combination with electric support, that is for hybrid systems. They will be required in order to meet the future CO2 limits and emission standards. At the same time, vehicle variants that are driven solely by electric motors are increasingly moving into the focus of development.