Summary
Hyundai is working on in-wheel hub motors for electric vehicles, as seen in recent patent filings.
The first patent covers a drive mechanism for a hub-mounted electric motor to spin a wheel.
The second patent is for an “in-wheel working device” that incorporates a gearshift mechanism into the motor rotor.
Hyundai has teased similar concepts in the past, including the e-Corner modular steering and propulsion system.
Other automakers like Ferrari and Toyota have also patented in-wheel motor designs, with China’s Dongfeng claiming to be the first to use them in a production car.
Article
Hyundai is focusing on the development of in-wheel hub motors for electric vehicles, as evidenced by recent patent filings. One filing, published by the USPTO in November 2024, details a drive mechanism that allows a hub-mounted electric motor to spin a wheel, incorporating a wheel bearing, outer race, and speed reducer with a ring gear that is connected to the bearing. Another document, published in October 2024 and filed earlier in 2022, discusses an “in-wheel working device” that includes a gearshift mechanism within the rotor of a hub-mounted motor. While not all patented ideas may make it to production, these filings suggest that Hyundai is actively working on in-wheel motors.
Hyundai has teased similar concepts in the past, such as the e-Corner modular steering and propulsion system, which integrated in-wheel motors with steering and braking hardware into modules that could be installed at all corners of a vehicle. This design allows for more packaging freedom and the ability to rotate wheels up to 90 degrees. Additionally, Hyundai and Kia unveiled the Universal Drive System—or Uni Wheel—in 2023, which is a design that positions motors closer to the wheels but does not integrate them into the wheels themselves. These developments indicate that Hyundai is exploring various approaches to incorporate in-wheel motors into electric vehicles.
Other automakers, including Ferrari and Toyota, have also patented in-wheel motor designs. Chinese automaker Dongfeng claims to be the first to use in-wheel motors in a production passenger car, while the Lordstown Endurance pickup truck had plans to use in-wheel motors before its production stalled. Aptera, a manufacturer of three-wheeler vehicles, also intends to use in-wheel motors in their upcoming autocycle. These examples highlight the growing interest in in-wheel motor technology in the automotive industry and the various applications it may have in electric vehicles.
The in-wheel motor technology being developed by Hyundai has the potential to revolutionize the design and performance of electric vehicles. By integrating motors directly into the wheels, vehicles can achieve improved efficiency, handling, and acceleration. The flexibility offered by in-wheel motors allows for more compact vehicle designs and the possibility of innovative features such as independently controlled wheels for enhanced agility and stability. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, advancements in in-wheel motor technology will play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive transportation.
Hyundai’s commitment to in-wheel motor technology is evident through its patent filings and ongoing development efforts. By exploring different configurations and applications for in-wheel motors, Hyundai is positioning itself as a leader in electric vehicle innovation. The integration of in-wheel motors into future Hyundai vehicles could lead to significant advancements in performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electric propulsion, in-wheel motor technology will likely become a key differentiator for automakers looking to offer cutting-edge electric vehicles to consumers.
In conclusion, Hyundai’s focus on in-wheel hub motors for electric vehicles reflects its commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of vehicle design. By exploring various concepts and configurations for in-wheel motors, Hyundai is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market and offer customers a new level of performance and driving experience. With advancements in in-wheel motor technology showing promising results across the industry, Hyundai’s efforts in this area are likely to shape the future of electric vehicles and set new standards for sustainable transportation.
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