WOW-POW = World Of Wonderful POWer: Michelin's e-wheel eliminates gearboxes, drive shaft, and suspension.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Michelin's e-wheel eliminates gearboxes, drive shaft, and suspension.

In the newest collaboration between Valeo and Michelin the companies have agreed to cooperate on "electric and rechargeable hybrid vehicle systems such as the drive train, engine and battery cooling management, climate control, lighting, energy management and tires," beginning with the e-wheel. Using Michelin's Active Wheel Technology, this new device puts two electric wheels inside the hub -- one for motive power, one for active suspension -- a design that negates the need for gearboxes, drive shafts, and conventional suspension assemblies. The design has previously been tested in the Venturi Volage concept car, and the companies are currently looking to get involved with a mass-market auto maker to take this project to the next level.
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