American Axle & Manufacturing was named a winner of a 2020 PACE Innovation Award and a PACE Innovation Partnership Award by Automotive News, for the front and rear electric drive units it developed for the Jaguar I-PACE all-electric AWD luxury SUV. Nominations for the awards were announced last fall, and the awards were presented in a virtual ceremony on April 28.
The award-winning powertrain accelerates the SUV without producing tailpipe CO2 or particulates.
AAM's electric drive technology delivers a total of 394 hp and 512 lb. ft. of torque across two electric drive units. The manufacturer noted the drive units draw on its geartrain design and manufacturing expertise to maximize the power in the available space, and contribute to the vehicle's low center of gravity.
The Automotive News PACE Awards recognize automotive suppliers for innovation, technological advancement and business performance.
PACE Innovation Partnership Awards are given to automakers and suppliers for collaborative efforts that result in strategic market entry and competitive timing difference in commercializing a supplier's products or process innovation.
"We are honored to accept a 2020 Automotive News PACE Award for a product that is transforming the global automotive industry and AAM's technology portfolio," said David C. Dauch, AAM chairman and CEO. "We are proud of our partnership with Jaguar Land Rover on this program and our shared commitment to innovation in introducing this new safe, compact, quiet and efficient Electric Drive Technology on the award-winning I-PACE."