UK-based company YASA asserts that its axial flux motors will generate great power while removing the necessity for large brakes—at least at the back of the vehicle.
Regenerative braking allows EVs to depend less on their mechanical brakes compared to internal combustion cars. Since a majority of braking force is allocated to the front wheels irrespective of the type of powertrain, rear brakes can be minimized. This is how the Volkswagen ID.4 successfully utilizes rear drum brakes, for instance. However, YASA is pushing this to the limit.
In a recent post on LinkedIn, the company unveiled a prototype of an in-wheel motor that merges its existing axial flux design with a compact inverter. According to the company, this integration can produce up to 750 kilowatts (986 horsepower) per wheel with “the potential for significantly reduced rear brake components,” and YASA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz.
YASA’s Chief Technical Officer, Tim Woolmer, elaborated in the comments, indicating that “the motor is crafted to fulfill all thermal demands of a rear brake” and that safety contingencies could include a small emergency brake or diverting power from the motor to act as a brake, even if the associated electronics fail.
The potential benefits consist of lower weight and more compact arrangements. The motor weighs only 27.9 pounds without its inverter and is highly power-dense. In a dynamometer test, it achieved 26.7 kW per pound, a figure YASA claims would set a world record if officially certified. Considering the lighter weight from downsized braking components and other reductions, YASA asserts that the in-wheel configuration could reduce weight by 440 pounds.
Numerous companies have attempted to promote in-wheel motors for EVs, and YASA’s technology is particularly suitable. Axial flux motors are substantially thinner than standard radial flux motors because the magnetic force that rotates them—the flux—travels parallel to the rotation axis instead of outward, or radially. This allows a more compact design that could fit more seamlessly into wheel hubs.
The weight savings YASA is touting is especially crucial for an in-wheel motor, as unsprung mass remains one of the significant challenges to commercialization. YASA’s design is still merely a prototype, so some hurdles may yet need to be addressed. The company is not revealing definite production schedules, but parent company Mercedes has featured YASA motors in its Vision One-Eleven and AMG GT XX concepts.
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### 1,000-HP Electric Vehicle Motors Function as Dual Rear Braking Systems
The advancement of electric vehicle (EV) technology has introduced groundbreaking solutions that improve performance, safety, and efficiency. One of the most fascinating innovations is the incorporation of high-powered electric motors, particularly those generating up to 1,000 horsepower, which serve dual functions in contemporary electric vehicles. These motors not only move the vehicle but also work as dual rear braking systems, offering substantial benefits in braking performance and energy recovery.
#### Understanding Electric Motors in EVs
Electric motors in EVs transform electrical energy into mechanical energy, powering the vehicle’s wheels. The output power of these motors can differ considerably, with high-performance variants reaching up to 1,000 horsepower. This power level enables swift acceleration and high-speed capabilities, making electric vehicles rivals to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
#### Dual Functionality: Propulsion and Braking
The dual functionality of 1,000-HP electric motors as braking systems is achieved mainly through regenerative braking technology. Regenerative braking allows the electric motor to switch roles during deceleration, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy. This process not only decelerates the vehicle but also recharges the battery, increasing overall efficiency.
1. **Regenerative Braking Mechanism**: When the driver engages the brakes, the electric motor transitions from driving the wheels to functioning as a generator. This shift captures energy that would typically dissipate as heat during conventional braking, returning it to the battery.
2. **Enhanced Braking Performance**: The high torque output of a 1,000-HP motor enables swift deceleration. This ability offers a more responsive braking experience, enhancing safety and control, particularly in high-performance situations.
3. **Heat Management**: Conventional braking systems produce significant heat, which can cause brake fade and reduced performance. Electric motors, when employed for braking, alleviate this issue by distributing the braking load and minimizing reliance on friction brakes, thus extending their lifespan and maintaining consistent functionality.
#### Advantages of Dual Rear Braking Systems
1. **Increased Efficiency**: By utilizing electric motors for braking, EVs can reclaim energy that would ordinarily be wasted, enhancing overall energy efficiency and extending driving range.
2. **Reduced Wear on Mechanical Components**: The dependence on electric motors for braking decreases the wear and tear on traditional brake components, leading to lower maintenance costs and longer service intervals.
3. **Improved Vehicle Dynamics**: The capacity to manage braking through electric motors enables advanced vehicle dynamics and stability control systems. This technology can enhance traction and handling, especially in challenging driving conditions.
4. **Customization of Braking Force**: Electric motors can be controlled precisely, allowing for customizable braking force distribution between the rear wheels. This feature can improve cornering performance and stability during aggressive driving maneuvers.
#### Future Implications
As electric vehicle technology continues to evolve, the use of high-powered electric motors as dual rear braking systems is likely to grow more common. Manufacturers are investigating ways to enhance this technology, including advancements in battery efficiency, motor performance, and overall vehicle architecture.
The potential for 1,000-HP electric motors to operate as dual braking systems signifies a notable progression in the evolution of electric vehicles. This innovation enriches performance and safety while aligning with the increasing demand for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. As the automotive sector transitions toward electrification, the function of electric motors in braking systems will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility.