Intelligent power management company Eaton today announced the launch of a new EV Truetrac® differential, engineered specifically for electric vehicles (EVs), for the Auto Shanghai 2025, held April 23-May 2 in Shanghai, China. The innovative design addresses the unique challenges presented by EV propulsion systems, including shared low-viscosity oil environments, increased sensitivity to noise, and the demands of high and instant torque delivery.

Eaton’s Detroit Truetrac, a helical-gear limited-slip differential, has been a trusted solution for improving traction, handling and stability across various vehicle platforms. Now, as more vehicles transition to electric, Eaton has introduced the EV Truetrac to meet the evolving needs of global automakers.

“Our EV Truetrac differential leverages Eaton’s decades of expertise in gear design to deliver exceptional performance while ensuring quiet, maintenance-free operation,” said Mark Kramer, business unit director, ePowertrain, Eaton’s Mobility Group.

Engineered for the EV environment

Unlike ICE vehicles, which utilize heavy gear oil in their differentials, EV drive modules share a lubrication system with the motor and use lower-viscosity oils that flow more like water. Eaton’s Truetrac has been redesigned with advanced micro-geometry tuning to ensure durability in this thinner oil environment. Additionally, material science advancements have been applied to ensure longevity in high-torque applications.

Another key factor in EV differentiation is noise, vibration and harshness. EVs are more sensitive to drivetrain noise due to the absence of traditional engine sounds masking mechanical operation. Eaton has refined the EV Truetrac’s gear design to minimize noise while maintaining its signature seamless operation.

Torque characteristics also differ in EVs, as they deliver instant, high torque. The EV Truetrac has been engineered to withstand these loads while providing superior traction in both urban and off-road conditions.

Expanding Eaton’s EV differential portfolio

While Eaton’s EV electronic locking differentials (ELockers) are popular in Asia’s EV market, the company sees growing demand in North America and Asia for an automatic limited-slip solution like the EV Truetrac, which is targeted toward pickup trucks and SUVs. This differential will provide automatic response depending on road conditions, enhancing traction and stability for daily driving, off-road adventures and towing applications.

“Our goal is to provide a broad application solution that supports EV adoption across multiple segments,” Kramer added. “We are excited to bring our proven traction technology to the next generation of vehicles and offer customers a seamless way to improve their EV’s performance.”