Source: Indigo TechnologiesIndigo's new in-wheel traction motor addresses weight reductions, efficiency improvements and enhanced safety requirements.

The all-in-one Traction T1 propulsion system is built on the concept of an in-wheel motor, but offers much more. The design eliminates the need for additional drive components, including a transmission, drive-shaft and differentials.

The all-in-one concept integrates an active suspension system, a direct drive motor and drive electronics into the wheel. This provides the same benefits of other in-wheel design while addressing additional design criteria including suspension and braking systems.

Indigo also built a suite of advanced control algorithms to increase the value of the entire system. It allows the direct drive motor and associated regenerative braking system to operate at higher efficiency levels and operates at an industry-low 48 V. It also couples with the integrated active suspension system to improve handling and maneuverability.

An interesting use case for Indigo’s all-in-one Traction T1 motor lies within the autonomous EV market. The active suspension addresses issues with motion sickness, an inherent problem with current autonomous vehicles. It adjusts to all types of terrain for improved handling, and Indigo stated that a 50% reduction in impact forces can be experienced due to the active suspension system alone.

Indigo also anticipates a new paradigm in the automotive industry. A paradigm defined by the rise of autonomous vehicle technologies, increased EV market share and increasingly stricter emission and safety requirements. The T1 is designed for this paradigm. It provides for vehicle mass reductions while increasing vehicle design flexibility. It is a seventh-generation technology that provides vehicle manufacturers with the freedom to address market demands.