AAM: Delivering Power the to move the world STOCKPRICE: $20.17 SUPPLIERS CAREERS HOME COMPANY PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY AFTERMARKET INVESTORS/MEDIA AAM Technology New Technology e-AAM™ Driveline Systems EcoTrac™ Disconnecting AWD System High-Efficiency Axles Front & Rear Wheel Drive eLSD Go West for Hot Test SYLENT Foam-Wrapped Liners Engineering Manufacturing Quality Electronic Integration TECHNOLOGY Go West for Hot Test AAM assesses its latest technologies in the blazing desert heat AAM assesses its latest technologies in the blazing desert heat AAM ventured into the U.S. deserts of California, Arizona, and Nevada for two weeks this past August to test its latest technologies in extreme heat conditions. With daily summer temperatures reaching upwards of 112 degrees Fahrenheit, this rugged environment proved a perfect location for AAM's 2015 hot testing procedures. Specific testing sites included Baker Grade, California; Davis Dam, Arizona; and Reno, Nevada. "We develop our driveline components to offer the ride and handling at multiple levels of ability on all surfaces and in all weather conditions," said Phil Guys, AAM Vice President - Driveline Engineering. "Just as we pay attention to the engineering and design of each of our components, we strive to exceed customer expectations by testing product performance in multiple environments and in extreme conditions." Towing more than 33,000 pounds of gross combination weight (GCW) up Davis Dam in Arizona is just another day at work for our next generation 3500 HD axles. Driveline systems and components put through extreme heat testing include AAM's latest axles and driveshafts currently in production; the next generation EcoTrac® All Wheel Drive; and a light-weight rear axle that is currently in the concept phase. We also performed a variety of specific trailer tow tests to further examine AAM components and lubricants and to ensure that our new designs are durable and do not overheat even under the most severe conditions. AAM's new lightweight axle technology was put to the test with its TracRite® electronically actuated ball locker differential in the deep Nevada gravel. "We take time during testing to tow the industry's biggest trailers up the longest grades and through zealous terrain changes in the high heat of August," said John Hibbler, AAM Director of Advanced Product & Process Development. "It is the best way to help our driveline products meet and exceed the expectations of our customers." High heat and heavy trailers are the ideal proving grounds for next generation axles and lubricants that we are developing for trucks of the future. AAM tests its technology line-up on OEM vehicles in both extreme heat and cold conditions. From the searing desert heat in August, further testing will occur on the ice and snow of Northern Michigan and Northern Sweden where testing temperatures can drop as low as -31°F. AAM's next Winter Test will take place during late January and February of 2016. Print this Page HOME CONTACT US SITE MAP TERMS OF USE & PRIVACY © 2016 American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. All Rights Reserved.