SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING A NEUTRAL STATE IN MULTI-RATIO ELECTRIC DRIVE MODULE

An electrified powertrain for an electrified vehicle includes a first electric drive module (EDM), a second EDM and a controller. The first EDM includes a first electric motor. A first gearbox transfers first drive torque from the first EDM to drive first drive wheels. The second EDM includes a second electric motor. A second gearbox transfers second drive torque from the second EDM to drive second drive wheels. The second gearbox has first and second clutches that provide two distinct gear ratios. The controller operates the electrified powertrain in (i) a normal drive mode wherein drive torque is commanded from the first and second electric motors, and a (ii) neutral drive mode wherein the clutches are commanded to an open position whereby the second drive torque is disconnected from the second drive wheels and drive torque is commanded from only the first EDM.