Basic Motors is methods so as to add quad-motor powertrains to its electrical autos, with a give attention to efficiency each on and off-road.
In a patent submitting revealed by the US Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) Nov. 21, 2024, and filed by GM Might 17, 2023, the automaker discusses use of a mechanical coupling to permit two electrical motors to drive the identical axle.
Basic Motors quad-motor coupling patent picture
The coupling would enable each motors to be locked collectively, doubtlessly by way of a clutch pack, in keeping with the submitting. This could assist ship most torque throughout a greater variety of eventualities, GM notes.
For instance, when off-roading on low-traction surfaces or with one wheel off the bottom, the mixed torque of each motors may very well be despatched to the wheel with probably the most grip, GM says. Alternatively, GM says that on pavement,”directional stability could also be improved at straight-line launch, which can lead to improved 0-60 efficiency, and at excessive pace, which can mitigate extreme steering sensitivity.”
2024 GMC Hummer EV
The patent submitting discusses utilizing pairs of motors on the entrance or rear axles of an EV, permitting for a quad-motor powertrain. GM presently provides a tri-motor powertrain on the GMC Hummer EV, with a single entrance motor and twin rear motors, however with digital fairly than mechanical controls for the rear motors.
Amongst different automakers, Rivian provides a quad-motor powertrain in its R1S and R1T, whereas BMW has been publicly testing its personal model since 2022. Anticipated to ship a peak of 1,341 hp in some functions, BMW’s quad-motor powertrain will possible be utilized in an electrical M3 sports activities sedan.
