Buick GL8 PHEV Uses BorgWarner Two-Speed Hybrid Transmission
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Earlier this year, GM Authority reported that General Motors had launched the all-new Buick GL8 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in China, which now stands as the Tri-Shield brand’s first electrified MPV. As a PHEV, the GL8 utilizes a unique combination of electrons and gasoline for propulsion, and now, it appears as though BorgWarner is providing the two-speed transmission found in the MPV.
The Michigan-based company’s wet clutch and hydraulic control module shift duties in the aforementioned two-speed hybrid transmission. As General Motors’ first large- and medium-sized plug-in hybrid transmission built for the Chinese market, the wet clutch and hydraulic control module combination helps set a new standard for PHEVs.
It’s worth noting that the Buick GL8 is exclusive to the Chinese market.
“The Chinese market for new energy vehicles is rapidly evolving, demanding various innovative technologies. We’re delighted to contribute the wet clutch and hydraulic control module for the 2-speed hybrid transmission of Buick’s GL8 to enhance its performance,” BorgWarner Vice President and Drivetrain and Morse Systems President and General Manager Isabelle McKenzie remarked. “This collaboration with Buick not only showcases BorgWarner’s technical prowess but also underscores our capability for local R&D in China.”
For reference, the all-new GL8 produces 392 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful plug-in hybrid MPV on the market.
As background on the transmission itself, the wet clutch for the two-speed hybrid transmission helps to improve system efficiency through low drag torque and features a compact axial and radial design. It utilizes BorgWarner’s state-of-the-art friction technology, ensuring the highest reliability possible.
Meanwhile, the hydraulic control module for the two-speed hybrid transmission offers numerous advantages, such as allowing for a wide pressure adjustment range, high control precision, low leakage, and high efficiency. Featuring a compact and lightweight design, it facilitates clutch pressure control and cooling for the clutch and electrical motor and integrates the tandem e-pump and temperature sensor.
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Dang that van makes 392hp??? Too bad its so clearly Chinese market oriented in its looks as that thing would probably fight hard in the minivan market here. Sienna is a hybrid but a 245hp one at that, and the Pacifica is a PHEV but 260hp combined and outdated.
Yeah, I did a double take on those numbers as well. I have to wonder if a misprint. China is not known for hp wars. Also super cool that the US is exporting something to China in the consumer sector. Surprising, but welcome news.
The US exporting to China? That’s funny.
This is Chinese.
This is going to be competing with the Li Auto Mega, which is more expensive and more powerful.
It’s just a completely different market, and I doubt we’ll ever see something like this here.
Redo the sheetmetal a bit to make it not so fugly, maybe rebadge as a Chevy and that could do well in the US to compete against the Pacifica Hybrid.
Rated on the CLTC as 86miles all-electric range, so like 60-65 miles EPA is about double what the PacHy offers.
We need this van in US. Toyota creating artificial demand by producing by orders now, honda stalled in hybrid innovation and pacifica have not changed a bit since their launch of hybrid.
Having spent a week in China riding around in various GL8’s, this is a great vehicle and would actually work well in North America. Sadly, the regulatory costs to get it approved for US operation are too high and that won’t happen.
Build one something like this for the USA and BUILD IT HERE!! Our family WILL NOT buy a pissy assed foreign tin can with an American nameplate slapped on it.
Get rid of Mary Barry and save GM! She is destroying the company! Hard to believe that now Star-Bucks is worth more than GM! I feel so sorry for GM dealers, she has to go!