LONDON—GKN Automotive is accelerating its development of next generation e-drive technology in response to the rapidly increasing global demand for electrified vehicles. New units that harness state-of-the-art 800-volt technologies are already at advanced stages of development and being tested in real-world conditions.

“Future eDrive technologies, using 800V technology, promise many benefits for EV owners, including faster charging times and superior performance,” says Liam Butterworth, CEO GKN Automotive. “The greater systems efficiencies they bring will also lead to an increased driving range, currently a key obstacle for consumers wanting to make the switch to a battery electric car. Efficiencies could also lead to car makers opting to use smaller batteries, reducing vehicle cost, complexity, and weight.

“These high-tech 800V systems will create faster charging cars with better battery range, improved driving performance and even greater efficiencies,” claims Butterworth. “GKN Automotive intends to continue delivering an increasingly electrified future”

According to Butterworth, GKN Automotive’s rapid development of next-generation is being enhanced through Formula E racing, where it serves as a partner to Jaguar Racing. “Constant testing to improve efficiency, performance and extending the range of batteries in the ultra-competitive world of electric motorsport creates a direct link from race to road,” explains Butterworth. “Cutting-edge developments currently being developed for Jaguar Racing will likely be available on road cars in just three years.”