One of the main benefits of EV models is the freedom of packaging. Electric motors are relatively small and don’t need extensive cooling. Batteries can fit wherever it makes sense in terms of safety and stability, and there’s no exhaust to fit into the vehicle. Generally, you’ll find the electric motor or motors close to the wheels. The Donut Labs startup may have solved the downsides of hub-mounted motors.

How Hub Motors Simplify an EV Powertrain

Donut Labs gets its name from the donut shape of the hub motor and the motors it makes are radial flux motors with more torque than average. Hub motors are a great way to simplify the powertrain of an EV model as there’s no need for gears or a driveshaft. However, previous versions of the hub motor have added unsprung weight and exposure to harsh conditions down by the wheels.

Because of this, hub motors have had reliability problems. However, Donut Labs claims this won’t be a problem with its motors. In fact, the company has dubbed them infinite motors because, when designed correctly, they should outlast the rest of the vehicle. According to the Donut Labs techs, a reliable hub motor is all about how it’s manufactured.

The goal is to achieve a repeatable and durable process with no coils or magnets getting in the way of motion. Donut Labs says its motors are difficult to destroy in any way besides a catastrophic crash.

Donut Labs Family of Five Motors

Recently, Donut Labs revealed its collection of five motors. The smallest motor is ideal for large drones, while the larger motors can be used in passenger cars and even semi-trucks. The company said each size has its own benefits. The larger motors offer more performance, while the smaller ones optimize affordability.

The revolutionary design could even unlock new industries, such as drones, which can lift shipping containers. The compact shape and lightweight design of the Donut Labs motors seem to have infinite possibilities. When might you see a Donut Labs motor at your local car dealer?

A good example is how it might work in a compact EV crossover. Donut Labs believes its motors could reduce the amount of parts in a powertrain by three-quarters. This would save weight and assembly time, and thus also reduce costs.

Golden Solution In Hub Motors

The first use of Donut Labs motors was in motorcycles. Industry experts have known for a long time that hub motors are the best solution to streamline EVs, but the weight has been a problem. Donut Labs appears to have the solution to make hub motors viable. A lot can change during the period when parts are tested and the motors are placed in vehicles.

However, if everything works out the way the company expects, it’s possible that EV models with Donut Lab motors might be available in a few years. The company has also fielded interest from other industries, including using the motors in washing machines and wind turbines.