YASA unveils Revolutionary 750 kW in-Wheel Electric Motor Weighing Just 12.7 kg
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British company YASA presents the first electric motor inside the wheel with 750 kW adn only 12.7 kg in weight.
* Axial in-wheel motor with massive power.
* up to 750 kW per wheel.
* much lighter engines.
* New architecture for electric vehicles.
* More energy efficiency.
* Smaller rear brakes.
* Mixed environmental impact.
* Clear path towards more sustainable EVs.
Reinvent Power Without Increasing Weight
Just a few weeks after breaking its own record for power density, YASA has shown the real application of its technology: a directly integrated axial motor inside the wheel. The current prototype delivers up to 750 kW per wheel,a figure that places this solution in unknown territory for the electric vehicle.
What is transformative is not only the performance, but the way in which YASA has recovered engine concepts from the 19th century to rethink them with modern materials and state-of-the-art electronics, achieving motors so compact that they fit in a tire and with considerably greater efficiency.
Breaking your Own Limits
In July, YASA marked a technical milestone by achieving 550 kW in an engine of barely 13.1 kg, equivalent to 42 kW/kg. This figure doubled the current industry standard.
Months later, the company repeated: a slightly lighter engine, 12.7 kg,reached the 750 kW,raising the density to 59 kW/kg,an increase close to 40 % compared to the previous test. These are numbers that are difficult to ignore in a…
YASA’s New Axial Flux In-Wheel Motors: A Potential Revolution for Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicle (EV) technology is rapidly evolving, and a key area of innovation is the drivetrain. Recent advancements from YASA, a UK-based motor manufacturer, promise to significantly alter EV design, particularly with their new generation of axial flux in-wheel motors. These motors, coupled with a high-power density inverter, address longstanding challenges related to weight and torque, possibly unlocking new levels of efficiency, sustainability, and performance in electric mobility.
The Challenge of In-Wheel Motors – and YASA’s Solution
Traditionally, in-wheel motor designs have struggled to balance power output with acceptable weight. Early iterations were frequently enough either too heavy, impacting vehicle range and handling, or lacked the necessary torque for practical applications. YASA’s new technology appears to overcome these hurdles.
At the heart of this advancement is a 1,500 kW dual inverter system weighing just 15 kg, boasting a power density of 100 kW/kg. https://yasa.com/technology/ This is nearly double the power density of many currently available commercial solutions.YASA’s CTO highlights this breakthrough, stating that the previous limitations of in-wheel motors – weight and torque – are now largely overcome.
Axial flux motors,unlike customary radial flux motors,arrange the magnetic flux axially (like a disc) rather than radially (like a cylinder). This configuration allows for a more compact design and higher torque density. YASA specializes in this technology, and their latest iteration represents a significant leap forward.
Benefits of In-Wheel Motor Technology
Integrating motors directly into the wheels offers several advantages for EV design and performance:
* Enhanced Regeneration: In-wheel motors enable significantly higher levels of regenerative braking. This means more energy is captured during deceleration, converting kinetic energy back into electricity to recharge the battery. This increased regeneration can potentially reduce or even eliminate the need for traditional rear brakes in some vehicle models, leading to weight savings, reduced material usage, and a lower environmental impact during manufacturing.
* Individual Wheel Torque Control: Controlling the torque of each wheel independently provides several benefits. It improves vehicle stability, particularly in challenging conditions, and enhances efficiency in urban driving scenarios. This precise control allows for optimized power delivery and minimizes energy waste.
* Space Savings: Removing the traditional drivetrain components (transmission, driveshaft, differential) frees up valuable space within the vehicle. This is particularly beneficial for smaller urban vehicles,allowing for more interior room or a more compact overall design.
* Weight Reduction: The combination of a lighter motor and the elimination of drivetrain components contributes to a significant reduction in overall vehicle weight. Lower weight translates directly to improved range and efficiency.
Potential Applications and Impact on the EV Landscape
YASA’s in-wheel motor technology has the potential to reshape several areas of the electric mobility sector:
* Decarbonizing Transportation: By increasing vehicle efficiency without requiring larger, heavier batteries, this technology can accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation.
* Compact Urban Vehicles: The space-saving benefits are ideally suited for developing smaller, more agile EVs designed for city environments.
* extended Range: Weight reduction and improved efficiency contribute to increased driving range, addressing a key concern for many EV buyers. This is particularly valuable for delivery fleets and electric public transport where maximizing range is crucial.
* sustainable Manufacturing: Reducing the reliance on heavy materials like copper and steel in braking systems and drivetrain components promotes more sustainable manufacturing practices.
* Modular Vehicle Platforms: The adaptable nature of this technology allows for the creation of flexible vehicle platforms that can be easily modified to meet evolving regulatory requirements regarding emissions and efficiency. https://yasa.com/news/yasa-selected-by-continental-to-develop-next-generation-electric-drive-system/
The Future of EV Technology: Efficiency Over Speed?
While the increased power offered by YASA’s technology could be used to create faster EVs, the company emphasizes the importance of prioritizing efficiency and emissions reduction. If the industry focuses on leveraging this technology to reduce energy consumption rather than simply increasing performance, in-wheel axial flux motors could become a cornerstone of a more sustainable and accessible electric future.
YASA was acquired by Mercedes-Benz in 2023, signaling a strong commitment to this technology and its integration into future electric vehicle platforms. https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/news/company/mercedes-benz-acquires-yasa/
Further development and adoption of this technology will depend on factors such as cost, durability, and
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