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Elaphe and McLaren Applied partner for EV in-wheel motors & onboard electronics

November 19, 2023

Elaphe, a provider of in-wheel propulsion system technology, and McLaren Applied, a supplier of high-performance power electronics, are collaborating to develop an in-wheel propulsion system. This system combines McLaren Applied’s inverter technology with Elaphe’s direct-drive in-wheel motors and vehicle controls. The resulting in-wheel propulsion system offers long-range cruising efficiency and superior vehicle controllability, with a torque response five times faster than existing systems.

Elaphe’s in-wheel technology, with torque densities up to 460 Nm/liter and 100Nm/kg, leverages the high control bandwidth of each wheel to enhance vehicle safety and driving character. The company’s efficient and robust in-wheel motor technology, advanced direct-drive-motor control software, and safe multiple-wheel drive controls form the basis of its contribution to the partnership.

McLaren Applied supplies high-efficiency power electronics, including inverters for the McLaren P1 in 2012 and Formula 1 and Formula E since 2013. The company’s next-generation 800V Silicon Carbide (SiC) inverter, IPG5, offers a power density of 90kVA/kg and 130kVA/L, variable switching frequency, and efficiency of up to 99%. This inverter can directly improve overall vehicle efficiency and enhance driving dynamics.

The collaboration between Elaphe and McLaren Applied hopes to allow significant space and weight savings, reducing vehicle energy consumption and enabling automakers to design for minimized aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance.

Elaphe will be showcasing its software and hardware solutions, along with McLaren Applied’s IPG5 inverter, at CES. For more information, visit their website at https://www.in-wheel.com.