ECOmove showcases in-wheel motor unit at Paris Show

27 September 2012

Danish startup ECOmove is introducing an in-wheel motor unit at the Paris Motor Show. The unit is a fully functional drivetrain with traction motor, braking (hydraulic, hand and regenerative) and suspension systems built in.

The ECOmove in-wheel motor unit. Click to enlarge.

With the objectives of reducing the weight and the number of parts, the design team came up with an uncomplicated and compact unit, which is based on a novel suspension system in composite materials that eliminates the need for bearings and springs, resulting in a total weight of less than 30 kg (66 lb). This system is now patented and ready to be manufactured at low cost.

With only a few parts, and a minimum of them moving, maintenance requirements are limited. This is supported by the engine performing up to 80% of the braking, resulting in less wear on the mechanical brakes.

As an off-the-shelf solution, the wheel motor unit is mounted separately and with no axle. The unit is easily accessible, and can be dismounted and replaced or maintained on-site.

Depending on the application, the wheel unit can be configured as active or non-active on functions such as turning, braking and engine. The flexible construction also enables wheel motor unit to be used in many different car designs.

As applied in ECOmove’s QBEAK electric city car demonstrator, the two in-wheel units deliver 35.4 kW each (70.8 kW peak).