High Power 3-D Printed BEV Motor Unveiled
Equipmake, the UK BEV drivetrain specialist, is showcasing a compact, lightweight, high-power electric drive system for manufacturers of high-performance BEVs at Battery Show Europe.
Its Ampere-220 e-axle system combines a 3D-printed electric motor with all power electronics, including the silicon carbide inverter and an integrated transmission system, in a single unit that directly powers the vehicle’s axle. The company says the new system is aimed at manufacturers of performance BEVs.
At its heart, the Ampere electric motor features a spoke rotor design which has recently also featured in the Ariel Hipercar in the form of Equipmake’s APM motor. Claiming extreme lightweight of 20kg (44lbs), Ampere has peak power of 220kW (295bhp) and a maximum motor speed of 30,000rpm.
Among its construction advantages, metal is only put where it is needed and thermally efficient thin walls and fine surface details are combined directly with the motor’s structure. This replaces multi-part assemblies with a single, complex architecture that has improved cooling ability while low inertia allows for greatly increased rotational speed. Debuted in twin-motor specification, Ampere-220 e-axle offers 440kW (590bhp) peak power per axle with a total unit weight of just 85kg (187lbs).
Ian Foley, Equipmake CEO, said: “Equipmake has always been at the forefront of innovation in electric motors, with our APM range offering class-leading power densities thanks to their compact, lightweight designs. Ampere showcases the next-gen of motor technology. Combined with our own power electronics, including our silicon carbide inverter, and transmission system, we have created the Ampere-220 e-axle.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
