Translating High Performance into High Efficiency

It turns out high-performance EV hardware can be super-efficient, too...If you've heard about axial flux motors in the past few years, it's likely been in the context of applications in high-performance luxury automotive brands. Compared to the radial flux motors you find in most electrified vehicles, axial flux motors are lighter, more power dense, and can produce more torque--ideal for high-performance vehicles.

Five years ago, Mercedes-Benz purchased the UK's Yasa, intending to use them in their AMG EVs--and have since incorporated the technology into the recently-revealed AMG GT 4-Door Coupe and AMG CLA45. You can also find these motors in the Ferrari SF90, McLaren Artura, and Lamborghini Revuelto plug-in hybrids.

Now, Horse--the powertrain joint venture between Renault and Geely--has introduced a compact EREV propulsion module that leverages both axial flux motors and a sophisticated internal combustion engine. The 105kW axial flux motor is 46% shorter and 64% more power-dense than a radial flux motor. The accompanying Euro7-compliant 2.0L turbocharged engine can burn 100% methanol (for reduced CO emissions) and includes a high-energy ignition system to improve fuel consumption.

The whole package weighs 374lbs, including power electronics, just a little more than a typical cast-iron block four-cylinder turbo. With Renault's recently announced "futuREady" strategy encompassing EREVs, it wouldn't be a surprise to see this hardware show up in a future Renault model--and Horse is certainly not averse to selling it to anyone else who might be interested.

#renault #geely #horse #erev #automotive #autoperspectives