Integrating in-wheel motors

Four publicly disclosed vehicles are examined for which Protean Electric has taken a leading role in converting into electric or hybrid prototypes.

In-wheel motors offer a way to revolutionize the automotive industry through a technology that can add electric drive to any conventional vehicle without affecting the existing drivetrain, thereby maximizing design reuse. To achieve this, several practical hurdles have to be overcome regarding the integration of these motors. Protean's real-world experience gained over a variety of vehicle retrofit programs illustrates some of these challenges and gives practical examples of the measures taken to overcome them.

The Protean in-wheel motor concept occupies a package volume in the wheel that was previously occupied by the friction braking components of the vehicle. On closer inspection and calculation, it is clear that the Protean in-wheel motor, although a highly capable regenerative braking actuator, is not sized to produce the high levels of brake <bold>The Mercedes E-class EV battery pack layout.</bold> torque and power required during an emergency stop, particularly on the front wheels of a vehicle.