Magna reveals electric live axle for pickup truck use

Right now, the hottest thing in electrification is pickup trucks. Most of the early examples seem to be using purpose-built platforms and drivetrains to meet the challenge, such as with the GMC Hummer EV and its fully independent suspension. But a new product from Magna may make it easier to electrify even more truck platforms than if every manufacturer was developing specialty trucks.

Magna calls it the eBeam, and it's a solid axle with either one or two electric motors positioned in the middle. And that's really about the extent of the design. But it's important because this electrified axle is designed to bolt right where an old rear axle for an internal combustion powertrain would go. It can work with existing truck frames and suspension systems. So you could hypothetically create a fully electric version of an existing truck quickly and easily. Not only that, but the live axle would maintain the off-road articulation that many truck fans appreciate, plus it's a simple and rugged design.