There are instances where manufactured engines in electric motors do not attract too much attention. However, this one that we are about to elaborate on has done just that. It has made it into the automotive headlines, and engineers are buzzing about it. A company located in Finland called Donut Lab has stirred up noise within the communities by introducing an electric motor called the Donut Motor, donut-shaped, 845 HP, and just 40 kg. According to Motor Authority, the donut-shaped engine was manufactured to be utilised in several vehicles, such as aircraft and ships.
A ring of undiluted engine power: The donut motor is groundbreaking, and this is why
Motor Authority states that one of the things that stands out and makes this invention more remarkable and groundbreaking is its weight. It has a diameter of 21 inches and weighs 88 pounds (40 kilograms), which is a sign that a vehicle can perform more effectively. Donut Lab explained that once everything has been set and production is completed, in-wheel designs will mean reduced costs.
Furthermore, producing 845 horsepower for a motor that only weighs 40 kilograms makes this invention more efficient than conventional electric vehicles. As per Top Gear reports, unsprung weight has always been a key issue for electric vehicles; however, Donut Lab has assured that its engine has the sheer amount of “undiluted” power and torque that will make up for it.
According to Top Gear, Donut Lab CEO Mark Lehtimaki said:
“Great unsprung mass has been the most important reason why everyone hasn’t used motors integrated with the tyre in their vehicles. Through the torque and power density we’ve now achieved, the relative weight of the motor is so small that the unsprung mass is insignificant.”
It is not just about power and speed. The whole automotive industry could be transformed
One thing about vehicle and engine developments is that the automotive industry gets to watch and try to find ways to adapt or adjust. In this case, the Donut Motor can permit manufacturers to see how best they can fit it in their current engines and vehicles without major design overhauls. When fully observed, this invention can go beyond just supercars.
A shape that eliminates the norm and why it is stirring conversation
Now that we know Finland unveiled an engine with ‘strange’ performance, another thing that could be perceived as strange is the donut shape. It might seem like a marketing strategy over innovation; however, the truth is the motor can concentrate electromagnetic power more evenly because of its toroidal construction, which reduces energy loss and weak spots.
Engineers have struggled with heat dissipation with engines that are not of a ring shape; however, now that can be controlled and regulated. Research reports claim that the design allows for easy airflow to cool down the encircling stator and rotor in a circle. The less the heat, the better the vehicle performs. Donut Lab has set a good example of how other motor manufacturers can implement these methods to eliminate some of the common issues.
Donut Motor has other smaller, yet still powerful, engines
The Donut Motor has lighter and even smaller, less potent versions. Additionally, a 17-inch model with 201 horsepower was displayed. It weighs only 37 pounds and is made for motorcycles. An even smaller version, measuring 12 inches and weighing only eight pounds, is being developed, according to Donut Lab. Motor Authority reported that the company is planning to make smaller versions as well. For instance, the mini version is scaled at 3.3 pounds and will be perfect for running a drone. Currently, Donut Lab does not yet have plans to collaborate with any major brands.