Revolutionary Electric Car Motor Concept Promises Extended Range
Exciting developments are underway in the world of electric vehicle technology, with a new motor concept that is set to revolutionize the industry by extending the range of EVs without the need for larger batteries. In December 2023, German start-up Deepdrive and components supplier Continental joined forces to create a groundbreaking dual-rotor hub motor paired with an advanced ‘dry’ integrated electric drum brake.
Collaborating with BMW through the BMW Startup Garage venture client programme since 2021, Deepdrive is on the brink of testing this innovative technology. The dual-rotor hub motor is a radial flux type, featuring two rotors – one inside the stator and one outside. This unique design results in increased torque and torque density, making it more efficient than traditional single-rotor motors.
While the concept of a dual-rotor motor is not entirely new, Deepdrive claims to be the first to overcome the manufacturing challenges associated with it. The technology offers greater efficiency, reduced system losses, and is adaptable for use in central drive units or as in-wheel motors for electric vehicles.
One of the key advantages of this new motor concept is its ability to address the issue of increased unsprung weight in in-wheel motors. The lighter weight of the dual-rotor technology significantly mitigates this problem, allowing for rear brakes to be downsized or eliminated entirely. As a result, total unsprung masses are not necessarily increased compared to a conventional front-wheel-drive car.
This cutting-edge motor concept holds great promise for the future of electric vehicles, offering improved performance, efficiency, and range without the need for larger batteries. As Deepdrive continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, we can expect to see advancements that will shape the next generation of EVs.
