Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, UK
A group of specialist engineering technology firms is set to embark on the development of next-generation electric-drive systems that do not require rare earth metals. UK-based Sevcon will lead the collaborative project that includes Cummins Generator Technologies and Newcastle University's Power Electronics and Drives Research Group to develop traction drive units for use in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric-only vehicles.
The consortium has secured over £500,000 ($781,050 U.S. at the current exchange rate) in matched funding from the government-backed Technology Strategy Board and the Department for Business Innovation and Skills.
The team will work on the development of a "no-rare-earth-metals" electric drive system using advanced, switched reluctance motor technology. The group looks to overcome the need for rare earths by developing a technology that uses steel instead of the contested materials. It's anticipated that the consortium-developed traction motors will be ready for volume production within four years.
Continue reading UK consortium to develop rare earth-free electric-drive system
UK consortium to develop rare earth-free electric-drive system originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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