Groupe PSA selects Punch Powertrain technology for its future electrified transmission systems

• Punch Powertrain has been selected to supply its newest generation of patented e-DCT systems by 2022, as part of Groupe PSA’s electrification push.
• This electrified Dual Clutch Transmission – hybrid DT2 – with a 48V motor will equip Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles.
• The two companies are entering into discussions about manufacturing the technology at one of Groupe PSA’s plants and are exploring the possibility of extending the partnership.

electrified Dual Clutch Transmission – hybrid DT2

Groupe PSA has been actively accelerating its shift to electrified vehicles (Mild-hybrid, MHEV), Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) with the aim of developing an electrified offering covering 100% of its range by 2025.

In this context, Groupe PSA’s decision to select Punch Powertrain as the supplier of its next generation electrified transmission systems is highly strategic.

Best in class Dual Clutch Transmission

Groupe PSA’s main reason for cooperating with Punch Powertrain is to leverage its cutting-edge and patented dual clutch transmission design, which allows for fewer components, and hence a lighter and more compact transmission system. In addition, it delivers outstanding performance and a very favorable fuel economy at a competitive cost. The next generation of this design, with a 48V motor configuration, will be installed by Groupe PSA in its vehicles.

This DCT technology establishes a new reference point for all competing DCTs in the passenger car and light commercial vehicle segments, given its outstanding characteristics.

Punch Powertrain, strong customer focus and big investment

Punch Powertrain has carried out major investments to meet the requirements of a project of this magnitude, including the acquisition of the power electronics expert Apojee.

Punch Powertrain’s international growth strategy

The agreement with Groupe PSA is a major step for Punch Powertrain and is in line with its strategic vision of becoming a global automotive supplier. To secure sustainable and continuous growth, the company has focused on two objectives: expanding its product portfolio and establishing a worldwide customer base in global markets.

With Groupe PSA as its first large European customer, Punch Powertrain is meeting its second objective: securing its position in Europe and expanding its global footprint.

!NEW! All-New Buick LaCrosse goes on sale in China next month

New sedan will take performance, fuel efficiency and comfort to new level

All-New Buick LaCrosse

SAIC-GM’s new-generation Buick LaCrosse sedan, which goes on sale in China next month, will come with new high-efficiency powertrains and an upgraded chassis. It will take performance, fuel efficiency and comfort to a new level in the premium passenger car segment.

Highly Efficient Powertrains

The new Buick LaCrosse is being offered in China with a choice of powertrains. The top-of-the-line LaCrosse 28T is powered by GM’s high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine, which was named a Ward's 10 Best Engine. The engine incorporates advanced technology such as a twin-scroll turbocharger, intelligent inline direct injection, a tooth camshaft drive chain, a variable displacement oil pump and an integral balance shaft mounted low in the oil sump to maximize efficiency.

New Buick LaCrosse 28T is powered by GM’s high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine.

Paired with an upgraded intelligent six-speed DSS transmission and incorporating start/stop technology, it generates a maximum output of 192 kW and peak torque of 350 Nm. The powertrain combination enables the new Buick LaCrosse to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds while achieving combined fuel consumption of 7.6 liters/100 km.

The new Buick LaCrosse 20T is equipped with GM's new-generation and efficient 1.5T SIDI engine, which features an advanced structural design and cutting-edge technologies. They include mid-mounted direct injection, a variable displacement oil pump, an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold, a patented ultra-quiet inverted-tooth camshaft drive chain and an all-aluminum split cylinder block.

New Buick LaCrosse 20T is equipped with GM's new-generation 1.5T SIDI engine.

The engine is matched with a seven-speed intelligent dual-clutch gear transmission and includes fuel-saving start/stop technology. The powertrain combination produces a maximum output of 125 kW, peak torque of 252 Nm and combined fuel economy of 6.2 liters/100 km. The new Buick LaCrosse 20T is eligible for the Chinese government’s 50 percent purchase tax cut for vehicles with small-displacement engines.

Enhanced Chassis System

The new Buick LaCrosse has an upgraded chassis system. It comes with GM’s second-generation Continuous Damping Control (CDC). A sensor monitors road conditions 100 times per second to maximize comfort and handling. Younger drivers will appreciate the specially tuned Sport mode, which ensures better handling – especially in cornering.

New Buick LaCrosse’s upgraded chassis.

The optimized MacPherson front suspension in the new Buick LaCrosse has a class-leading decoupled three-link upper suspension structure that independently passes on the load of the springs, bumper blocks and dampers to the body for faster response. A redesigned eight-point full-length sub-frame connects the body using four vibration isolation joints and four enhanced connecting points. 

A multi-link independent rear suspension isolates vibrations while offering sufficient lateral rigidity and stability. An upgraded Electric Power Steering (EPS) system provides precise and highly efficient steering control by boosting the motor power by 39 percent and enhancing transmission efficiency to over 85 percent.  

New Buick LaCrosse’s upgraded chassis.

The LaCrosse has been a key member of Buick’s lineup in China since the nameplate’s local introduction in 2006. Last year, more than 83,000 LaCrosse sedans were sold nationwide.