by Revolutionary Breakthrough in the World of Electric Vehicles
British company Yasa, owned by Mercedes-Benz, has set a new world record for power density in electric motors. Their new prototype develops an incredible 59 kilowatts (79 horsepower) per kilogram of weight. For those who don’t use the metric system, this is equivalent to 35 horsepower per pound.
Technical Specifications of the Innovation
Electric motors may seem like simple constructions of metal and wires, but the right motor can radically change the feel of an electric car. The new Yasa development has the potential to revolutionize the performance of electric vehicles.
Historical Context of the Achievement
The new record significantly exceeds Yasa’s previous achievement, set earlier this summer, which was 26 horsepower (19 kW) per pound or 42 kW (56 hp) per kg.
Practical Application of the Technology
The total power of the new motor is impressive – with a weight of only 12.7 kg (28 pounds), it is capable of producing a short-term peak power of 750 kW, which is equivalent to 1006 horsepower. Although the continuous power is significantly lower, it still remains high – from 350 to 400 kW (469-604 hp), which is an impressive indicator for a single motor of such mass.
Most importantly, this is not just a computer model, but a fully functional prototype that is already undergoing bench testing. It is created using scalable manufacturing technologies and without exotic materials, paving the way for future use in production cars.
Words from the Developers
Founder and Technical Director Tim Woolmer called this achievement “an important confirmation” of the promise of the new generation axial flux motor design.
“This is not a concept on a screen,” Woolmer noted. “It’s running right now on dynamometer test benches.”
Future of the Technology
Mercedes acquired Yasa in 2021 and plans to use axial flux technology in its future flagship models, including a super-sedan and an SUV. The axial flux design differs from conventional radial motors by using thinner disc-shaped rotors, which can provide greater torque and power with less mass.
This technological innovation could significantly accelerate the automotive industry’s transition to electric traction, offering drivers a combination of high performance and efficiency. Reducing the weight of motors without losing power opens up new possibilities for the design of electric vehicles and could contribute to a further increase in range. The Yasa development demonstrates that even in the seemingly mature field of electric propulsion, significant potential for improvement remains.
