Vehicle rear suspension support assembly with integrated electric drive

摘要

A support assembly for an independent rear suspension includes a generally-tubular central member having first end and a second end. A U-shaped end member is coupled to each end of the central member, such that the end members are structurally bridged by the central member. Lands defined on the ends of the arms of each end member are adapted to engage the vehicle frame rails through suitable isolation mounts. An attachment point defined on each end member is adapted to pivotally support a lateral link coupling a respective wheelend assembly to the support assembly. The central member advantageously defines at least a portion of a housing adapted to receive a driveline component, such as an electric motor, coupled to the vehicle's rear wheelend assemblies by a pair of shafts extending from the central member, with the further benefit that the shared suspension and driveline isolation mounts providing enhanced NVH characteristics.