Driveline suppliers unfazed by declining ICE business

A decline in gasoline and diesel vehicle sales will impact suppliers as well as automakers. Those that have built their business around the downstream elements of the engine look well placed to navigate the transition.

GKN Automotive is one such company, having recently announced a series of electrified powertrain wins with four global automakers. The UK-headquartered supplier will provide eDrive technologies for 13 different models, ranging from premium SUVs to an ‘iconic’ electric city car. To share an update on its electrified powertrain business, the company recently hosted a virtual roundtable with select media. Leading the call was Dirk Kesselgruber, who recently joined GKN as President of the ePowertrain division. He took the position in October having previously served as President of Schaeffler AG’s Chassis Systems business.

An engineer by trade, Kesselgruber has…