Patent ID: 8011464
Filing Date: 2011-09-06
Classification: B60K

Abstract:
1. A vehicle comprising: a controller configured to detect a predetermined operating mode of the vehicle; a first drive axle; a second drive axle including a pair of drive axles; an internal combustion engine providing propulsive energy to the first drive axle; a motor having a rotor, wherein the motor is selectively energized during the predetermined operating mode to thereby selectively provide additional propulsive energy to the second drive axle, wherein the second drive axle is selectively rotatable by the motor for propelling the vehicle in the predetermined operating mode; a reduction gear set having an output member and a first set of rotatable elements; a differential positioned between the pair of drive axles of the second drive axle, and having a second set of rotatable elements, the differential being connected to the output member of the reduction gear set and configured for transferring a torque from the motor to the pair of drive axles; and a pair of selectable one-way clutch (SOWC) assemblies each having an actuator in communication with the controller, and each being connected to a different one of the pair of drive axles of the second drive axle; wherein the pair of SOWC assemblies is selectively engaged via the controller to transfer the torque from the rotor to the pair of drive axles only when the predetermined operating mode is detected; and wherein the pair of SOWC assemblies is selectively disengaged via the controller to the SOWC assemblies to prevent rotation of the rotor and each of the first and second sets of rotatable elements when the motor is de-energized.