Global drive-line manufacturer GKN presented new carbon-saving systems and technologies at the UK’s Low Carbon Vehicle Event earlier this month.

The company’s EVO drive for pure electric and extended-range electric vehicles was on display alongside its new Gyrodrive flywheel hybrid system for buses (pictured).

Paul Wyatt, managing director of GKN Hybrid Power, said: “Electric drive technologies and hybrid systems from GKN already power some of the most advanced systems on the planet, including Le Mans-winning hybrid racing cars, plug-in hybrid family vehicles and supercars; and now even London buses. These latest innovations will make the low-carbon option even more competitive.”

The Gyrodrive flywheel hybrid system can be fitted as new or retrofitted to bus fleets, improving fuel economy by around 20%. It uses a high-speed flywheel made of carbon fibre to store the energy generated by the bus as it brakes.

The stored energy is then used to power an electric motor that helps to accelerate the bus back up to speed. The system’s reliability has been demonstrated over three years of endurance racing with Audi, as well as extensive trials with London buses.

Moreover, Gyrodrive is designed to last the life of the bus, eliminating the need for any battery changes.

Meanwhile, the latest GKN EVO electric drive system for passenger cars and delivery vehicles integrates an axial flux motor with a single-speed transmission; it offers high levels of torque and power in a light and compact unit, and it has attracted interest from several vehicle manufacturers.