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Eaton unveils differential engineered specifically for EVs

EV Truetrac differential. [Credit: Photos courtesy of Eaton]

 

 

Intelligent power management company Eaton launched a new differential engineered specifically for electric vehicles (EVs) at Auto Shanghai 2025 in China at the end of April. The differential is aimed at improving traction with an additional benefit to stability. The innovative design addresses the unique challenges presented by EV propulsion systems, including shared low-viscosity oil environments, increased sensitivity to noise, and the demands of high and instant torque delivery.

Eaton's Detroit Truetrac, a helical-gear limited-slip differential, has been a trusted solution for improving traction, handling, and stability across various vehicle platforms. Now, as more vehicles transition to electric, Eaton has introduced the EV Truetrac to meet the evolving needs of global automakers.

What makes this differential different?
Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which utilize heavy gear oil in their differentials, EV drive modules share a lubrication system with the motor and use lower-viscosity oils that flow more like water. Eaton says its Truetrac has been redesigned with "advanced micro-geometry tuning" to ensure durability in this thinner-oil environment. Additionally, material science advancements have been applied to ensure longevity in high-torque applications.

Another key factor in EV differentiation is noise, vibration, and harshness. EVs are more sensitive to drivetrain noise due to the absence of traditional engine sounds, which mask mechanical operation. Eaton has refined the EV Truetrac's gear design to minimize noise while maintaining its signature seamless operation.

EV Truetrac differential. [Credit: Photos courtesy of Eaton]

 

 

Torque characteristics also differ in EVs, as they deliver instant, high torque. The EV Truetrac has been engineered to withstand these loads while providing superior traction in both urban and off-road conditions.

North America a target market
While Eaton's EV electronic locking differentials (ELockers) are popular in Asia's EV market, the company sees growing demand in North America and Asia for an automatic limited-slip solution like the EV Truetrac, which is targeted toward pickup trucks and SUVs. This differential will provide automatic response depending on road conditions, enhancing traction and stability for daily driving, off-road adventures. and towing applications. Eaton says it has a tunable bias ratio in the range of 1.5 to 3 and is easily integrated into compact packaging spaces, allowing for more flexible vehicle design with a high power density. The helical gear design ensures response without driver intervention, seamlessly resuming normal operation once optimal traction is reestablished. It operates in both forward and reverse.

"Our EV Truetrac differential leverages Eaton's decades of expertise in gear design to deliver exceptional performance while ensuring quiet, maintenance-free operation," said Mark Kramer, Business unit director, ePowertrain, Eaton's Mobility Group. "Our goal is to provide a broad application solution that supports EV adoption across multiple segments. We are excited to bring our proven traction technology to the next generation of vehicles and offer customers a seamless way to improve their EV's performance."

Learn more at eaton.com/us/en-us/catalog/differentials/ev-truetrac-differential.html.

Source: Eaton

Published May 2025

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