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Bob Wilson
Bob Wilson
Tour GM’s motor lab
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Munro's Paul Turnbull explained the YASA (Yokeless and Segmented Armature) axial flux motors. I'm convinced their lighter weight and smaller size for a given power output will make radial flux motors obsolete. Last year, YASA (owned by Mercedes since 2021) demonstrated a 737-horsepower motor that weighs only 29 pounds. Their slim, pancake form-factor also saves space.
Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Koenigsegg hybrids all use YASA motors rather than radial-flux motors. The upcoming electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 incorporates 3 YASA motors that generate a peak system output of 680 horsepower (612 continuous), and a stump-obliterating 1,298 pound-feet of torque. The Mercedes-AMG GT XX concept car is so bonkers, it's almost unreal.
Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Koenigsegg hybrids all use YASA motors rather than radial-flux motors. The upcoming electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 incorporates 3 YASA motors that generate a peak system output of 680 horsepower (612 continuous), and a stump-obliterating 1,298 pound-feet of torque. The Mercedes-AMG GT XX concept car is so bonkers, it's almost unreal.
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I agree about the axial flux motors but I suspect Mercedes is not going to let it be reasonably available much like Toyota’s Prius transaxle and the disaster of the NiMH batteries. Both were stunted by patent owners who chose short term profits over long term gains. Mercedes appears to be following that same “MBA” business model.
Some countries won’t care and the Chinese and Indians will become proficient in making axial flux motors and using them. Patents were supposed to enhance injection of new technology but today, makes isolated islands that are soon bypassed by the clever and motivated.
Bob Wilson
Some countries won’t care and the Chinese and Indians will become proficient in making axial flux motors and using them. Patents were supposed to enhance injection of new technology but today, makes isolated islands that are soon bypassed by the clever and motivated.
Bob Wilson
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The power-to-weight ratio is insane. 29 pounds for 737 hp is wild. Radial flux is going to struggle to compete in high-performance applications. The packaging advantage alone makes it worth it for EV sports cars. I'm curious about cost though. YASA motors aren't cheap to manufacture.
The 29-lb, 737-hp motor is actually in production. There's a version of this motor in YASA's labs pumping out 1,000-hp!
Unsurprisingly, Chinese motor-makers are also developing axial-flux motors. If there's a way to bring the cost down, they'll find it.