Summary
- Elaphe is focusing on performance applications with its in-wheel electric motors
- The Sonic 1 thin electric motor is compatible with high-performance brakes to allow for larger brake rotors
- The motor generates 268 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque, with the option for higher outputs
- Elaphe in-wheel motors were showcased on the Italdesign Quintessenza GT concept
- In-wheel motors offer packaging advantages, with interest from companies like Ferrari and Ford
Article
Slovenian company Elaphe is focusing on performance applications for its in-wheel electric motors, showcasing the Sonic 1 at CES 2025. The Sonic 1 is a thin electric motor that can work with high-performance brakes, allowing for larger brake rotors to be packaged within a 21-inch front wheel. The motor is designed for use in electric vehicles or hybrids, generating 268 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque, with the ability to be tuned for higher outputs. However, each motor adds 88 pounds of unsprung weight, which could impact ride and handling tuning.
Elaphe’s in-wheel motors were also featured on the Italdesign Quintessenza GT concept, a grand tourer with impressive performance capabilities. The concept boasts a 0-62 mph time of 2.5 seconds with the option to go even faster with performance tires. A 150-kwh battery pack located under the floor provides an estimated 466 miles of range, showcasing the potential of Elaphe’s in-wheel motors in high-performance vehicles. Despite this, Elaphe’s motors have not yet been used in volume production vehicles like the Lordstown Endurance pickup truck or the Lightyear 0 sedan.
In 2023, Elaphe announced a partnership with McLaren Applied Technologies to use its motor tech in highly efficient and hyper-responsive electric vehicles. This collaboration highlights the interest of established automakers in in-wheel motors, with companies like Ferrari patenting designs for performance EVs and Ford testing trucks with potential in-wheel motors. In-wheel motors offer the advantage of moving propulsion hardware to the corners of the vehicle, allowing for greater packaging flexibility and reduced unsprung weight.
Donut Lab, another company, is also slimming down its in-wheel motors to achieve greater packaging flexibility and reduced weight. At CES 2025, the company introduced a family of motors with record power density and various sizes for use in a range of vehicles, from cars to drones. This indicates a growing trend in the automotive industry towards in-wheel motors for their performance benefits and packaging advantages. As technology continues to advance, in-wheel motors are likely to become more prevalent in the market, offering new possibilities for electric vehicles and hybrid powertrains.
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