Summary
- Tula Technology presented new results from tests of its Dynamic Motor Drive technology in an electric vehicle
- The technology aims to eliminate reliance on rare earth elements and provide more efficiency at a lower cost
- When DMD is applied to a vehicle’s rear axle, the vehicle range increased by 0.6%
- Tula’s DMD technology focuses on improving efficiency of electric drives at low loads by pulsing torque near peak efficiency
- Several automakers are working with Tula to implement Direct Motor Drive on their platforms
Article
Tula Technology, a company specializing in propulsion efficiency, recently showcased its Dynamic Motor Drive (DMD) technology for electric vehicles at the SIA Powertrain 2024 International Congress. By retrofitting an EV with their software and an externally excited synchronous motor, Tula demonstrated how they could reduce energy consumption and increase overall system efficiency. The DMD software eliminates the need for rare earth elements and optimizes the magnetic field of the motor for maximum efficiency during low torque requests.
In collaboration with BorgWarner, Tula tested the DMD technology on a luxury SUV that featured internal permanent magnet motors on both front and rear axles, as well as an engine for range extension. By implementing DMD on the rear axle only, the vehicle’s range increased by 0.6% based on the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle. Tula estimates that applying DMD to both axles could result in a 1.5% increase in vehicle range. This efficiency improvement is significant for electric vehicles that heavily rely on permanent magnet motors utilizing rare earth elements, potentially reducing battery size and cost while enhancing range.
The implementation of DMD is a software-based solution that aims to enhance the efficiency of electric drives at low loads by pulsing torque near peak efficiency levels. Tula Technology emphasizes that DMD is a cost-effective alternative for improving propulsion efficiency in electric vehicles, offering a sustainable solution that does not rely on rare earth elements. The company’s initial focus was on battery-electric vehicles, but they have also received interest from manufacturers of plug-in hybrids, with several automakers already partnering with Tula to integrate DMD into their vehicle platforms.
The application of Tula’s DMD technology holds promise for the future of electric vehicles, especially in light of increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. With 90% of EVs currently utilizing permanent magnet motors that require rare earth elements, the efficiency gains achieved through DMD have the potential to revolutionize the industry by enabling reduced battery sizes, lower costs, and extended range for electric vehicles. Tula’s innovative approach to improving propulsion efficiency through software optimization is gaining traction among automakers seeking to enhance the performance and sustainability of their electric and hybrid vehicles.
As the automotive industry continues to transition towards electric and hybrid vehicle technologies, the importance of maximizing efficiency and reducing reliance on rare earth elements becomes increasingly crucial. Tula Technology’s DMD software offers a viable solution for automakers looking to improve the energy efficiency of their electric drivetrains, ultimately leading to enhanced performance and range for electric vehicles. The successful implementation of DMD in luxury SUVs and other electric vehicles demonstrates the potential for widespread adoption of this technology across different vehicle platforms, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in the automotive industry.
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