CRADLE FOR A DRIVE SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE

A cradle for supporting a drive system of a vehicle includes at least one pair of side structures that extend generally in spaced and parallel relationship with one another. Each of the side structures extends between a front portion and a rear portion. At least one cross structure extends laterally between the rear portions of the side structures. At least one drive system coupler is connected to at least one of the structures for coupling the cradle to the drive system of the vehicle. At least one body coupler is connected to at least one of the structures for coupling the cradle to a body of the vehicle. A gap is defined between the front portions of the side structures such that no cross structure is located between the front portions of the side structures.