The German manufacturer announces a revolution
Germany’s DeepDrive has developed efficient and cheap engines that are now being tested in BMW electric models of the new generation, better known as Neue Klasse.
A revolutionary technology with electric motors directly in the wheel hubs could soon be in production. Advantages include lower consumption, lower weight, and these engines take up less space. BMW states that the cars can be 150 kg lighter compared to today’s models. The new electric motor that BMW is testing has double rotors, which should give it certain advantages over today’s electric motors. The stator drives both the outer and inner rotors. Together with BMW, DeepDrive tests engines in prototypes.
The engines have already been tested in the new BMW electric coupe, he says HAK magazine.
– DeepDrive engines mostly exceeded the announced characteristics. This is unusual at such an early stage with completely new technology – said Karol Virsik, head of concept and technology at the BMW Group.
The new motors located in the wheels will be 20 percent more efficient than today’s centrally located electric motors. Each motor weighs 35 kg and offers separate torque control. The startup DeepDrive is now working with major subcontractor Continental to further develop the technology. One disadvantage, however, is the greater mass of the wheel, which can compromise comfort and durability. They are also difficult to integrate with today’s suspension and brake components. The advantages of a hub motor are that there is no need for a differential or drive shaft and that power losses are reduced. German technology is said to be able to use disc and drum brakes, and the engine should fit a standard 19-inch wheel.
The German engine has a maximum power of 204 hp and a driving torque of 1500 Nm. This gives it a peak output of over 800 hp for a four-wheel drive car. However, the continuous power per engine is 109 hp.
Source: Revijahak.hr
Photo: Continental
Source: autoblog.rs
