Faraday Future Patents 4-Clutch Hybrid Transmission to Simplify PHEVs
Updated
Updated · SlashGear · Jul 13
Faraday Future Patents 4-Clutch Hybrid Transmission to Simplify PHEVs
3 articles · Updated · SlashGear · Jul 13
Summary
U.S. Patent No. 12,630,004 covers Faraday Future’s “Range-Extending Hybrid Transmission System,” designed to let a plug-in hybrid’s engine and electric motor run either independently or together.
The concept uses a multi-shaft layout with four clutches to connect the engine, generator-motor and driven wheels, aiming to decouple and re-engage each power source more simply than current hybrid setups.
Faraday Future says the design could improve range and reduce mechanical complexity as part of its AI Hybrid Extended-Range software package, targeting two chronic PHEV pain points: cost and reliability.
The patent remains a proof of concept, and packaging the extra shafts, clutches and control hardware into a vehicle alongside a battery, engine and fuel system could still make real-world adoption years away.