US electric car maker ZAP (OTC Bulletin Board: ZAAP) has signed an exclusive agreement for an advanced wheel motor technology from PML FlightLink Ltd. of Hampshire, United Kingdom.
ZAP secured the PML wheel motor technology to play a key role in the development of next generation electric vehicles being developed with Lotus Engineering. Electric vehicle concepts like the ZAP-X crossover SUV have targeted unprecedented performance goals, including a top speed of 155 mph, 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4.8 seconds, and a peak 644 horsepower. Steve Schneider, CEO for ZAP, says PML’s wheel motor achieves the power to weight ratio to meet the performance goals of the ZAP-X.
“Wheel motors are revolutionizing electric transportation, from our ZAPPY3 electric scooters all the way up to more ambitious projects like the ZAP-X crossover,” said Schneider. “We have witnessed the PML wheel motor technology in action and, without question, this the best drive system in the world. ”
Schneider pointed out why wheel motors allow automotive designers to achieve greater efficiencies in the overall design, distributing the weight and displacement of the drive train to the four corners of the vehicle. PML’s wheel motors don’t require intricate braking systems, instead relying on advances in regenerative braking that enhance efficiency and performance.
In exchange for exclusive rights, ZAP has agreed to an initial order of approximately US$10 million in PML wheel motors, subject to terms and conditions agreed on by both parties.
“We’ve sort of reinvented the wheel,” said Chris Newman of PML FlightLink to Car and Driver Magazine. The small British electrical-engineering company led by Martin Boughtwood, PML’s director, has produced a remarkable electric Mini to prove the technology. PML FlightLink Limited is a privately held UK corporation with more than 30 years experience in advanced wheel motor and control system development. According to PML, its compact, energy efficient, electric wheel motors produce unrivalled levels of torque with internal heavy-duty tapered roller bearings that can withstand heavy radial loads for robust use, important for the all-wheel drive capability of the ZAP-X.
PML’s Hi-Pa Drive(TM) is a literal revolution in motor technology with an integrated motor and drive electronics in one unit producing an ultra high power density — up to 20 times more than conventional systems. Hi-Pa Drive(TM) is ultra reliable — 20 times more reliable than conventional systems. It provides high torque in a lightweight flat motor package, ideally suited to vehicle in wheel drives, where its impact on suspension dynamics is minimal. Other features include total weather proofing, total energy transfer, and several levels of redundancy so any single failure will never prevent the vehicle from operating safely.
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