Nexteer Reinvents Driveline: A Game-Changer in Customer Experience and Vehicle Performance
Today’s mobility landscape is evolving rapidly. Automakers face growing pressure to deliver premium, efficient, and refined driving experiences—especially in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. With this in mind, Nexteer Automotive has taken a bold step forward. The company recently debuted a suite of next-generation Driveline innovations that prioritize durability, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) performance, lightweighting, and—above all—customer experience.
First and foremost, these innovations are not just technical upgrades. Rather, they represent a customer-first philosophy embedded deep in the design and functionality of each component. Every design decision, material choice, and structural optimization reflects Nexteer’s commitment to delivering what matters most to both automakers and drivers: a smooth, quiet, and responsive ride. Consequently, the new driveline portfolio achieves measurable gains across multiple CX touchpoints—from acceleration feel to cabin noise.
Driving Innovation with Purpose
To begin with, Nexteer’s enhanced Driveline lineup includes the optimized Face Spline Axle, a new 8-Ball Joint, and a Premium Double Offset (DO) Joint. In addition, the company has expanded its Cross-Glide Joint portfolio, offering new size variants for even greater packaging flexibility. Each innovation is a response to specific, real-world challenges faced by modern mobility platforms.
Let’s explore these technologies further.
- The Face Spline Axle delivers a notably refined ride. Because it eliminates start-click noise and seamlessly integrates with existing hubs, it ensures quieter performance and easier vehicle integration. As a result, customers enjoy not only a smoother start but also an overall more luxurious driving feel.
- The 8-Ball Joint redefines expectations for mass optimization. By achieving over 10% mass reduction compared to its 6-ball counterpart—without sacrificing strength—this joint contributes directly to vehicle efficiency. Thus, it improves fuel economy or battery range while enhancing vehicle dynamics.
- Meanwhile, the Premium DO Joint brings next-level comfort. Thanks to a redesigned ball track and improved dimensional accuracy, it enables smoother torque transfer and quieter acceleration—especially under challenging conditions like high torque and large articulation angles.
- Finally, the expanded Cross-Glide Joint sizes address rear applications with a compact, high power-density solution. Consequently, vehicles equipped with these joints benefit from low lash, better load-to-stroke efficiency, and outstanding NVH performance. The end result? A whisper-quiet and incredibly responsive ride.
Meeting the Unique Demands of EVs and More
While these technologies work across all propulsion types—including ICE, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid—their benefits shine brightest in EVs. Due to the quiet nature of electric motors, any vibration or noise becomes far more noticeable. Therefore, achieving refined NVH becomes not just a preference—but a necessity. Nexteer understands this well.
Because EVs also demand higher torque handling and increased efficiency, lightweighting has become a critical success factor. Nexteer’s solutions answer this call by reducing mass without compromising durability. In doing so, they extend vehicle range, simplify packaging, and ultimately elevate the ownership experience.
Putting Durability and Versatility Front and Center
Importantly, Nexteer’s latest Driveline systems are engineered for real-world longevity. Built with robust materials, they endure elevated torque loads and regenerative braking forces—particularly vital in EVs. Furthermore, they’re validated globally to ensure reliability across all terrains, climates, and propulsion platforms.
In terms of versatility, these components are nothing short of exceptional. Because they are compatible with front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive systems, they serve a wide range of vehicle architectures. This flexibility allows automakers to streamline development while tailoring the end experience to the driver’s expectations.
Optimizing Every Mile, Every Drive
At every turn, these innovations demonstrate how engineering can directly influence CX. When a driver experiences smoother acceleration, reduced cabin noise, and enhanced responsiveness, they’re not thinking about the Face Spline or DO Joint. Instead, they’re thinking, “This car just feels better.” That’s the magic of great engineering—it disappears into the background and lets experience take the lead.
Moreover, the benefits extend beyond drivers. Passengers too enjoy the quiet, refined environment—especially on long journeys. Additionally, lighter driveline components contribute to better handling and reduced emissions (or extended EV range), further reinforcing Nexteer’s customer-first mindset.
Bridging Innovation and Strategy
According to Robin Milavec, Nexteer’s President, CTO, CSO, and Executive Board Director, “EVs introduce new challenges for driveline systems including higher torque loads, packaging constraints, and customer expectations for quiet and refined driving.” This insight reflects a strategic alignment of product innovation with customer demand. Because Nexteer leverages its decades of global Driveline expertise, the company can tackle these challenges with precision and confidence.
Indeed, that alignment is visible across the organization. From R&D labs to manufacturing floors, Nexteer’s teams are building products not only for vehicles—but for people. And with its strong global presence, Nexteer can support OEMs everywhere with consistent, scalable solutions.
More Than Driveline: A Complete Motion Control Partner
While the spotlight today is on Driveline, Nexteer’s impact reaches further. The company’s broader motion control portfolio includes Electro-Mechanical Braking, Rear-Wheel Steering, Steer-by-Wire, and more. Each offering is backed by deep vehicle-level engineering insight and a clear focus on the user journey.
Furthermore, Nexteer will showcase these innovations at Auto Shanghai 2025 (April 23 – May 2), inviting automakers and mobility leaders to experience the future of motion control firsthand.
Conclusion: Where Innovation Meets Experience
In summary, Nexteer’s new Driveline technologies don’t merely improve mechanical systems—they improve lives behind the wheel. By combining quiet refinement, durable design, and lightweight efficiency, these solutions enhance every moment of the driving journey.
Because customers expect more from vehicles today, automakers must deliver more. Fortunately, Nexteer makes that possible—not just through parts, but through purpose-driven innovation. With each breakthrough, the company transforms complex engineering into seamless experience.
And in today’s mobility world, that’s the ultimate differentiator.
