The constant development of electric vehicles redefines the design and layout of some of their components basic. And this with the aim of maximizing efficiency as well as interior space in order to provide passengers with greater comfort.
The future of electric cars according to Kia and Hyundai
One of the most interesting innovations is the Uni Wheel system, which Hyundai and Kia presented during the Uni Wheel Tech Day in November this year. Uni Wheel technology ranks as one of the most innovative in the automotive sector, but do you know what it consists of? Simply put, it is a technology that configures the inner space of the wheels to accommodate the gearbox and this, among other things, allows the engine to send power directly to each wheel.
Unlike other brands such as BMW and Bosch, which experimented with motors in each wheel, The Hyundai and Kia design uses four engines which, though smaller, are not less efficient, especially as they are arranged two for each axle.
With a more direct path to each wheel, This design improves power management and reduces losses. In addition, building the transmission into each wheel frees up valuable interior space that can be used to increase the vehicle’s capacity, add seats, increase the number of batteries for greater range, or simply increase the size of the trunk.
The problem or one of the difficulties associated with this technology is the possibility that Irregularities in the road can cause damage. However, both Hyundai and Kia have solved this problem through an air suspension system that improves the vehicle’s stability and aerodynamics by compensating for body movements in difficult conditions.
BMW and electric drive
BMW is another giant in the world of engines that has taken the electric drive to a new level. In this case, he worked closely with Continental and the startup DeepDrive. Together they presented a innovative two-rotor motor with radial flow which, while it may seem odd for four-wheeled vehicles, is common for two-wheeled vehicles.
The BMW in-wheel motor is located in the wheel hubs, allowing more space in the chassis for larger batteries. Using fewer intermediate components between traction and batteries increases efficiency and autonomy by 20%. Additionally, this 96.6% efficient 32-pound motor uses dry brakes instead of hydraulics, reducing costs while improving production.
Radial flow motor a The BMW twin rotor has many advantages: It is more economical, more environmentally friendly, frees up space in the chassis, enables faster energy recovery and can be easily installed on petrol vehicles and converted into hybrids.
Ferrari and wheel motors
Finally, Ferrarithe historical number one of racing cars, patented by a AC motor with a rotor integrated into the wheel hub. Considered revolutionary, this special design reduces the need for a gearbox and improves engine response.
As expected, Ferrari is aware of the disadvantages of this technology still at the beginning, as in the case of an increase in the number of components and the complexity of the assembly, but for this purpose it proposes a complete integration of the various components.
In this sense, Ferrari is optimistic and believes in overcoming technical challenges and expects a revolution in electric cars, as well as a possible transformation in the global automotive industry, despite previous attempts in this direction.
Undoubtedly, both Hyundai and Kia with the Uni Wheel, BMW with the twin-rotor engine and Ferrari with the AC motor are leading the electric drive revolution like never before, pushing the limits and marking the future of sustainable mobility.