Stellantis is exploring the use of multi-speed transmissions to enhance the efficiency of electric vehicles, according to a recent patent filing.
The patent application, originally submitted by the automaker in 2023 and published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on Feb. 27, 2025, focuses on the addition of a second forward gear to drive modules containing electric motors for EVs.
Stellantis EV transmission patent image
The patent details the mechanism for shifting between the two gears, mentioning the use of magnetic fluid with ferrous metallic particles that react to magnetic fields. Stellantis suggests that this technology could offer a more efficient alternative to traditional hydraulically-actuated clutches in moving gear shafts.
While the focus is on electric vehicles, the patent also mentions “electrified vehicles,” encompassing hybrids and plug-in hybrids like Stellantis’ Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Jeep 4xe models. This hints at the potential application of a 2-speed gearbox in hybrid systems, similar to what Mercedes-Benz uses in some AMG performance plug-in hybrids.
Stellantis EV transmission patent image
This marks the second recent patent filing by Stellantis related to multi-speed transmissions for electric motors. The previous filing in January 2024 focused on off-road applications and a different gear-actuation mechanism.
While the Porsche Taycan currently leads in using a multi-speed transmission in a production electric car, Mercedes and Lucid are also exploring similar technologies. Volkswagen, on the other hand, has indicated a different approach, and Honda is even developing a manual transmission with a clutch pedal for its upcoming 0 Series EVs to appeal to car enthusiasts.