Electronic Virtual Gearbox
The primary project aim was to couple the electronic virtual gearbox technology with a class leading electric scooter, the BO M.
Project Overview
Electric scooters primarily run direct drive electric motors, where motor speed matches wheel speed. The drawback is running the motor at an inefficient set point. Additional mass through a gear reduction is not desirable, plus there a very few off the shelf geared motors. The Electronic Virtual Gearbox, or EVG, is proposed to combat both design challenges.
The initial technology research and commercial patent searching was funded by Collins Limited. A secondary research phase was supported through an NVN-funded Feasibility Study. The primary aim of the project was to couple the EVG technology to a class leading electric scooter, the BO M.
Technology Developed
The EVG technology is software-controlled electronics, managing a battery pack with the aim of improving electric powertrain efficiency. The technology was created and developed by Collins Limited during the Feasibility Study. Lyra Electronics further developed the hardware for the Proof of Concept technology demonstrator.
The innovative element to EVG is its use and implementation of the EVG electronics. This technology is important to the sector as it serves to improve overall powertrain system efficiency, a key driver for electric vehicle manufacturers and governments alike.
The next steps will include further physical testing on a dynamometer to measure the efficiency at all points in the system.
Significant Project Outcomes
The project achieved the initial deliverable, an EVG technology demonstrator. The project was also able to pursue several stretch goals: primarily the development of a high-power electric scooter as a powertrain demonstrator for cargo micro electric vehicles.
The technology showed an efficiency and performance benefit compared against the use of field weakening. Through simulation the technology is also showing an efficiency benefit when using regenerative braking.
A key technology output was the development of a low-cost phase power measurement, where future investment has been earmarked.
The key learning has been the origins of electric powertrain efficiency losses and the key mitigation strategies.
Future Commercial Opportunities
Several commercial opportunities have been identified, which include the EVG technology itself, potential products, and improved service provision. The next steps are to engage further with the specific markets identified and aligned with the commercial outputs.
The primary target customers for the EVG technology will be those using field weakening as a primary motor control strategy. Key customer targets for phase power measurement will be microEV and L7 category manufacturers.
Funding has not been secured, nor sought by the consortia. Further technology development is required for commercial viability, which will be guided directly by sector and market requirements.
NVN Funding
The NVN funding has been critical to the project with its high-risk nature. Electric powertrain development covers a wide spectrum of physics phenomena including chemistry, electronics, and magnetics.
Ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of electric powertrain development requires a wholistic understanding of the effects of each of these facets on performance and efficiency.
Few commercial entities span the complete technical stack, reducing the potential development rate of the transport sector as a whole.
The NVN provides a fantastic platform for companies to collaborate within high-risk development projects, whilst retaining a commercial focus. Furthermore, projects foster connections between partners, the seed for increasing business resilience.
