NIO Launches Production of ES6 Electric SUVs Equipped with a New Transmission

In late spring 2019, the Chinese company NIO launched series production of ES6 fully electric SUV, equipped with a brand-new electric vehicle transmission designed by Weibang (JV company established by Punch Powertrain and XPT). This transmission is notable for a modular design and an enhanced level of adjustability in terms of application. Weibang engineers designed this solution to be applied in a wide range of vehicles.

ES6 fully electric SUV

The launch-of-production event of the ES6 model was attended by representatives of numerous NIO’s cooperating companies, including Weibang. A month ago, NIO started supplying preordered ES6s in China. ES6 is the 2-nd vehicle designed by NIO. This model is offered in two versions (standard (320 kW) and performance (400 kW)). Both versions can be equipped with either a 70 or an 84 kWh battery option, ensuring a driving range between 410 and 510 km. These promising designs are ideally complemented by the new transmission from Weibang.

The 1-speed EV transmission installed in the ES6 model is intended for pairing with different e-motors. It can be mounted on FWD, RWD, and AWD cars. This design arrangement provides symmetric drive/brake capacities and enhanced brake energy recuperation, increasing ES6’s driving range further. The analog of this new transmission solution in the Punch Powertrain portfolio is the ET2, which is compatible with e-motors (100 and 160 kW) and a gear ratio (1:10). Moreover, this unit has a large customization potential (optional e-park feature, different gear ratios and electric motors).

ET2 transmission designed by Punch Powertrain

The Weibang company was founded by Punch Powertrain and XPT a year ago. The main goal of this deal was to provide e-powertrain products to customers of both companies. It took the new JV company just a year to set up an advanced manufacturing site with 2 production lines. Thanks to the fact that the first transmission solution designed by Weibang successfully passed all technical testing, NIO decided to apply this promising unit in its ES6 SUV.

The launch of the ES6 model mass production also gives a great chance for Punch Powertrain to enter on the Chinese EV market. The company has already gained solid reputation in China with its CVTs.