- Increased Torque: With a larger rotor diameter, these motors generate more torque, eliminating the need for reduction gears.
- Simplified Mechanics: The absence of gears and driveshafts reduces friction, complexity, and weight.
- Enhanced Torque Control: Vehicles like the Renault 5 Turbo 3E benefit from precise torque vectoring and dynamic drift modes.
By removing central motors, gears, and driveshafts, in-wheel motors create:
- More room for batteries, luggage, and safety zones.
- Compact designs that offer extended range and more interior space.
Though in-wheel motors add some weight, they are remarkably light. A study by Lotus Engineering using Protean’s wheel motors on a Ford Focus MkII showed that performance changes due to additional unsprung mass could be managed with standard suspension tuning. The impact on steering, grip, and ride quality was minimal, especially for rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles, where front-wheel dynamics remain unchanged.
Major manufacturers have invested heavily in electric vehicles with central motors, but the in-wheel motor concept dates back to the 1901 Lohner-Porsche hybrid. Despite its long history, achieving widespread adoption will require time.
In-wheel motors may represent the next wave of vehicle innovation, offering enhanced performance and new design opportunities. Although challenges remain regarding their weight and the industry's current focus on centralized EV platforms, the benefits they promise make them a fascinating area for future development.
