MTS Systems Corporation, a global supplier of high-performance test systems and sensors, announced further power density improvements to its electric motor and inverter technology for motorsport.

Power density is a key component of successful racing. Leveraging experience and technology gained from developing energy recovery systems for Formula 1 racecars, MTS has developed its smallest, most lightweight and powerful electric motor system to date for use in the FIA Formula E Championship Series.

In past seasons, Formula E drivers changed to a second fully-charged car mid-race due to battery range limitations. For the upcoming season, drivers will use a single car for the entire race, requiring greater engineering innovation to remain competitive. MTS says that its new highly efficient, low-weight electric motor and silicon carbide inverter will contribute to next season’s success when drivers will need more power to win, and will collect bonus points for efficiency.

The FIA Formula E Championship Series provides a catalyst for advancing electric vehicle technology to the benefit of automotive manufacturers and their customers. Beyond its development of motors, inverters and award-winning solutions for recovering deceleration energy from braking, MTS has a proven history of creating highly dynamic systems to enhance racecar aerodynamics and suspension performance. Many of these systems are then used directly or with modification in the design and manufacture of passenger cars, trucks and buses.

MTS currently is a supplier to Formula 1, World Endurance Championship and Formula E Teams for motors and controls, and is expanding the electric motor and drive offering for automotive Tier 1 and OEM applications. The technology lends itself to hybrid (e-turbo, e-booster, traction drive, and brake energy recuperation) and pure electric drive applications.