Siemens develops wheel motor

Juergen Pander, Automotive News

Munich, Germany -- To meet future emissions regulations, Siemens VDO Automotive engineers are creating a set of wheels powerful enough to replace a car's engine.

The German supplier's eCorner project integrates drivetrain, steering, shock absorbers and brakes directly into the wheels. The project also demonstrates the potential of by-wire technologies.

With eCorner, a car wouldn't need hydraulic shock absorbers, mechanical steering, hydraulic brakes or an engine.

"We see the electromotor as the only powertrain solution capable of meeting the strictest future emissions requirements over the long term," says Klaus Egger, Siemens VDO group vice president of powertrain.

Four independently operating electric wheel hub motors replace the internal combustion engine. In addition, the servo motors handling suspension, shock absorbers and steering are positioned inside the wheel.

The unit features regenerative braking so that when the speed is reduced, the wheel hub unit functions as a generator and gains energy.

Electronic wedge brakes slow each wheel individually in case of a quick stop. Siemens VDO says the brakes will go into production vehicles as early as 2010.

The company says eCorner's advantages are reduced emissions, new design possibilities, better handling, fewer components and lower costs.

From Automotive News (A Crain publication)