GM is revolutionizing electric vehicles with its new axial-flow engine, promising to change the market forever.
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative more sustainable to gasoline-powered cars. However, there are still some challenges to overcome before they become the main transportation choice. Two of the biggest challenges are the cost and size of electric motors. These traditional engines are bulky and heavy, which affects the vehicles' efficiency and range. Furthermore, they are expensive to manufacture, contributing to the high price of electric vehicles.
GM understands these challenges and has developed a new axial-flow engine that promises to solve these problems. This engine is more compact and lighter, making electric vehicles smaller and more affordable.
What is Axial Flux Motor?
The axial flow motor is different from traditional radial flow motors. In radial motors, the magnetic force travels perpendicular to the axis of rotation, causing them to be long and barrel-shaped. In the axial flow engine, the magnetic force flows parallel to the axis of rotation, allowing for a flatter, more compact design, similar to a Frisbee.
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Axial flow motors offer several advantages over traditional motors:
Size and weight: They are smaller and lighter, which improves the efficiency and range of electric vehicles.
Modules: Despite their compact size, these motors are equally powerful.
Operational: The design allows them to operate more efficiently at higher speeds thanks to a concept called “mechanical field weakening.”
What is mechanical field weakening?
Mechanical field weakening is a technique that adjusts the distance between the stator (stationary part with coils) and the rotor (rotating part with magnets) to change the magnetic force. This allows the engine to operate more efficiently in different situations, offering high torque for acceleration and high speeds for cruising. GM plans to use a hydraulic system to adjust this distance, making the engine more versatile and efficient.
Impact on the electric vehicle market
GM's new axial-flow engine has the potential to transform the electric vehicle market. He promises:
Smaller and lighter vehicles: The compact and lightweight design allows for the creation of smaller, more efficient electric vehicles.
Cost reduction: With engines that are cheaper to manufacture, electric vehicles can become more accessible to the public.
Increased efficiency: Technology allows for better performance and greater range of vehicles.
The Introduction of GM's New Axial Flux Engine represents a significant advancement for the electric vehicle industry. With a more efficient and compact design, these motors can help overcome cost and size challenges, making electric vehicles more affordable and practical for everyone. GM is leading the way with this innovation, promising to forever change the way we view electric vehicles.
Honestly, after 4 years working on the GM production lines in São Caetano, I try to believe that that pile of trash and crooked cars are just an isolated scenario.
Wow, João, you're defending your livelihood by calling them crooked vehicles. If the vehicles you produce start not selling at all in a little while, you run the risk of losing your job.
Electric vehicle owners still suffer greatly from the lack of charging points. Here in Brazil, hybrids (electric and ethanol) are ideal, meaning there is no need to search for outlets or give up on traveling due to the uncertainty of not being able to recharge the battery. Cars must be environmentally friendly, but above all, they must be a convenience, not a nuisance.