Quote:
Originally Posted by Chance
In-wheel or hub motors seem to work best for now in smaller sizes (and weight) associated with lower power ratings. Much like small electric bike motors, it’s not surprising Ford would test on a Fiesta. I’d guess all four motors combined probably don’t put out as much power as some Tesla motors, or what Ford will use on F-150 or Transit.
I’m sure there’re other challenges also like shock loads on motors, electric connections that must flex with suspension travel, etc. I know manufacturers have to start somewhere, and for compact economy cars might make sense soon. However, as long as manufacturers continue to build electric cars that can do 0-60 MPH under 4 seconds, it’s going to somewhat limit these types of motors in my opinion.
Funny thing is who would have expected electric cars like Tesla roadster to have 0-60 MPH under 2 seconds and quarter mile under 10 seconds? If they designed a car with performance equivalent to a Honda Civic, these types of motors may work sooner. Just a guess on my part.
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That Fiesta was a one off prototype, 7 years ago and they only put motors in the rear wheels (I think it was a technology demonstrator for the company that made the motors).
Electric cars really didn't take off until someone demonstrated something that could do 0-60 fast (up until that point people simply considered them glorified golf carts). EVs had to be better than a gas powered car before people would take them seriously.