Geely has revealed new technical details of the upcoming Galaxy Cruiser 700 SUV. According to the published patent, the manufacturer is developing a rear axle with two electric motors and a hydrodynamic clutch capable of replacing conventional differential locks. If the technology reaches mass production, it could significantly change the design of modern SUVs.
A traditional differential lock is used to transfer traction to the wheel with the best grip. In severe off-road conditions, this remains one of the key elements of passability. However, the Geely patent describes a system where each rear wheel is driven by its own electric motor, and torque distribution is controlled by a special hydrodynamic clutch. This scheme allows for much faster traction adjustment and potentially reduces the number of mechanical components.
Previously, the Galaxy Cruiser 700 had already appeared in documentation as an SUV with a mechanical rear differential lock. The new patent indicates that the company is simultaneously exploring a more modern solution that could be lighter, easier to maintain, and more effective when electronic traction control systems are operating.
The Galaxy Cruiser 700 itself will be the first body-on-frame SUV from the Geely brand. It is expected that the model will receive a hybrid powertrain with three electric motors and a total output of about 1000 hp. The car is positioned as a competitor to the Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover Defender, and other large new-generation SUVs.
The main question now is not about power, but about how reliable the new system will be in practice. If the technology proves effective in harsh conditions, manufacturers may gradually abandon complex mechanical locks, which for decades have been considered an indispensable attribute of a serious SUV.