| L460 PHEV / drivetrain - tech information | |
Gentlemans,
I‘m a tech interested guy and maybe here some others are interested in details about the ev drivetrain in the PHEV L460.
I had all hybrid vehicles from LR so far and I learned a lot about the functionality by experience.
But all real insights how the ev/ice works together, I got only from ZF, the producer of the ev drivetrain/gear combo.
By the way, this drivetrain is also installed in the full-size PHEV’s from Porsche, Bentley, BMW…, every carmaker configures it with their own ICE/Battery setup.
Landrover is still not giving technical insights, behind marketing speech, so here ZF:
# Comprehensive ZF 8HP Hybrid Drivetrain Explanation
The ZF 8HP is an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF Friedrichshafen, adapted for hybrid vehicle applications. This innovative drivetrain integrates an electric motor into the transmission housing, offering a versatile and efficient hybrid powertrain solution.
## Key Features
1. **Integration**: The electric motor is strategically placed between the transmission and the internal combustion engine (ICE), allowing for seamless interaction between both power sources.
2. **Compact Design**: Despite the addition of an electric motor, the overall length of the drivetrain is not significantly increased, maintaining a compact form factor suitable for various vehicle designs.
3. **Power Output**: The electric motor can provide up to 160 kW of power, with the exact output varying based on the specific application and vehicle requirements.
4. **Efficiency**: The system enables smooth transitions between electric and combustion power, optimizing overall efficiency across different driving conditions.
5. **Compatibility**: Designed for versatility, the ZF 8HP can work with various engine types and can be adapted for mild hybrid, full hybrid, or plug-in hybrid configurations.
6. **Smart Control**: Advanced software manages the transmission, determining the most efficient operating mode based on current driving conditions and battery state.
## Operating Modes
The ZF 8HP hybrid drivetrain offers multiple operating modes to maximize efficiency and performance:
1. **Pure Electric Drive**: The vehicle operates solely on electric power, ideal for short distances or low-speed urban driving.
2. **Hybrid Drive**: Combines power from both the electric motor and ICE, optimizing performance and efficiency based on driving demands.
3. **Energy Recuperation**: During deceleration and braking, the system recovers kinetic energy and converts it to electrical energy to charge the battery.
4. **ICE-Driven Battery Charging**: The internal combustion engine can charge the high-voltage battery while running. This mode is crucial for maintaining battery charge during longer drives or when plug-in charging isn't available.
5. **Electric Boost**: The electric motor provides additional power to assist the ICE during acceleration or high-power demand situations, enhancing overall performance.
## ICE-Driven Battery Charging
This mode is a key feature of the ZF 8HP hybrid drivetrain:
- When battery charge is low and conditions are suitable, the system can use the ICE to generate electricity.
- The ICE runs the electric motor in generator mode through the transmission.
- The generated electricity is used to charge the high-voltage battery.
- This process can occur while the vehicle is stationary or in motion, depending on driving conditions and the energy management strategy.
Benefits of this feature include:
- Maintaining optimal battery charge during long drives
- Ensuring sufficient electric power for zero-emission zones in urban areas
- Providing flexibility in energy management across various driving scenarios
## Operation Without a Torque Converter
A crucial difference between the conventional ZF 8HP and its hybrid variant is the absence of a traditional torque converter in the hybrid version. Instead, the electric motor takes on this role, fundamentally changing the drivetrain's operation:
1. **Electric Motor as a Substitute**: The electric motor is positioned between the ICE and the transmission gears, replacing the torque converter.
2. **Start-up and Low-Speed Operation**: At vehicle start-up and low speeds, where a torque converter would typically be crucial, the electric motor provides the necessary torque and smooth power delivery.
3. **Power Transfer**: The electric motor can transfer power directly from the ICE to the transmission, or it can power the vehicle independently in electric-only mode.
4. **Smoother Transitions**: The electric motor allows for even smoother transitions between power sources than a traditional torque converter, as it can precisely control torque application.
5. **Efficiency Gains**: Removing the torque converter eliminates the energy losses associated with fluid coupling, potentially improving overall drivetrain efficiency.
6. **Launch Control**: For initial vehicle movement, the electric motor can provide instant torque, offering quick and smooth acceleration from a standstill.
7. **Regenerative Braking**: Without a torque converter, the electric motor can more efficiently capture energy during deceleration for battery.
Best,
René RR Classic 1998-2005
MINI 40th 1999-now
RRS SDV6 2011-2014
RRS SDV6 HYBRID 2014-2018
RRS P400e 2017-2018
RRS P525 2018-2022
RR VOGUE 2022-2024
RR P550e 2024
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1st Sep 2024 9:40am
