Tiny Electric Motor Sets New Standards in Power and Performance

Key Takeaways

Yasa’s axial flux motor achieved an unofficial record with a power-to-weight ratio of 42 kW/kg, producing 737 horsepower while weighing only 28.8 pounds.
In contrast, Tesla’s rear drive unit, used in the Model 3, weighs 176 lbs and generates only 320 hp.
Yasa’s motors could revolutionize EVs by reducing weight and costs, enhancing range and efficiency in future electric supercars.

Yasa’s Groundbreaking Electric Motor

Yasa, a UK-based company focused on high-performance axial flux electric motors, recently set a new unofficial record for power density. The company’s latest prototype motor produced an impressive 550 kilowatts (737 horsepower) while weighing just 28.8 pounds (13.1 kilograms). This achievement results in an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio of 42 kW/kg, significantly outpacing existing electric motors on the market.

For comparison, Tesla’s rear drive unit utilized in the Model 3 and Model Y produces a maximum of 239 kW (320 hp) but weighs around 176 lbs (80 kg). This highlights Yasa’s technological advancement, as their motor delivers more than double the power at a fraction of the weight.

Tim Woolmer, Yasa’s Chief Technology Officer, shared the milestone on LinkedIn, emphasizing that the record was achieved without the use of specialist materials, such as cobalt-iron laminations or Litz wire. He assures that this innovation can be mass-produced at a practical cost, indicating this could lead to a significant evolution in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.

The implications of Yasa’s breakthrough are substantial, particularly in enhancing the efficiency of electric vehicles. A lighter motor means that manufacturers can use smaller battery packs without compromising range, ultimately reducing costs and increasing accessibility for consumers. As EV manufacturers strive for longer ranges, Yasa’s design aligns perfectly with these objectives.

Currently, Yasa’s motors are featured in high-end hybrid supercars, including the Lamborghini Revuelto and the Ferrari SF90 Stradale. Following Yasa’s acquisition by Mercedes-Benz in 2021, the technology has been integrated into the upcoming Mercedes-Benz AMG GT XX Concept, which will utilize three of Yasa’s motors to reach an output of over 1,000 kW (1,360 hp).

This technology could pave the way for an entirely new class of all-electric supercars, further optimizing performance and sustainability in the automotive industry. As Yasa looks to expand its market presence, the potential for its axial flux motors continues to grow, promising enhanced EV capabilities in the near future.

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