Exclusive: Finnish Startup Raises €25M to Put a ‘Donut’ Motor in EV Wheels
In a groundbreaking step forward in electric vehicle (EV) technology, Revolution Motors, a Finnish startup, has successfully raised €25 million to fund the development and commercialization of its revolutionary “Donut” motor. This innovative motor is designed to be integrated directly into EV wheels, offering a new paradigm in electric vehicle propulsion that promises enhanced efficiency, improved performance, and greater design flexibility. This article explores what the Donut motor is, why it’s a game changer in the EV industry, and the practical benefits it brings to electric vehicles worldwide.
Introducing the ‘Donut’ Motor Technology
The concept behind the Donut motor is simple yet highly innovative: instead of placing the electric motor in a centralized location within the car, Revolution Motors has engineered a compact, ring-shaped motor that fits inside the wheel hubs. This “in-wheel” motor design resembles a donut (hence the name) and significantly changes how electric vehicles are powered.
Key Features of Revolution Motors’ Donut Motor
- Compact Ring-Shape Design: Fits neatly inside the wheel hub without increasing unsprung weight excessively.
- High Torque Density: Delivers strong torque directly at the wheel, improving acceleration and control.
- Modular and Scalable: Suitable for different wheel sizes and vehicle types, from passenger cars to light commercial EVs.
- Advanced Cooling System: Ensures optimum thermal management for sustained performance under high loads.
- Reduced Drivetrain Complexity: Eliminates the need for traditional transmissions and differentials, cutting weight and mechanical losses.
Why This €25M Funding Is a Big Deal for EV Innovation
The recent funding round, closed with participation from leading venture capitals and green technology investors, underscores the confidence the industry has in Revolution Motors’ cutting-edge approach. Here’s why this investment is pivotal:
- Accelerated R&D & Scaling: The investment will fast-track product development, prototyping, and testing phases to bring the Donut motor to mass production.
- Market Expansion Potential: Enables partnerships with EV manufacturers and integration into next-generation electric vehicles globally.
- Supports Finland’s Innovation Ecosystem: Strengthens the country’s position as a leader in electric automotive technologies and green startups.
- Innovative Disruption: Captures investor interest by solving core EV limitations such as efficiency losses and suboptimal packaging.
Benefits of Using Donut Motors in Electric Vehicles
The Donut motor technology offers a variety of benefits that can reshape the future of EV design and operation. Below is a detailed list highlighting the key advantages:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Improved Vehicle Dynamics | Direct torque application per wheel enhances traction, handling, and stability, especially in challenging conditions. |
| Compact & Lightweight Design | Integrating motors within wheels reduces drivetrain complexity and vehicle weight, improving range and efficiency. |
| Flexible Vehicle Architecture | Makes flat floor designs possible, freeing up interior space for passengers and cargo. |
| Lower Maintenance | Fewer moving mechanical parts mean reduced wear and tear and less frequent servicing. |
| Enhanced Energy Efficiency | Minimizes mechanical losses from transmissions and drive shafts for better battery utilization. |
First-Hand Experience: How Donut Motors Change Driving
Early testers of vehicles equipped with the Donut motor have reported noticeable improvements in ride comfort and responsiveness. The torque vectoring enabled by independent in-wheel motors allows for:
- Sharper cornering and better control in slippery conditions.
- Smoother acceleration with less drivetrain noise.
- More agile steering response and precise handling.
One test driver noted, “The drive feels more connected and confident, almost like the wheels themselves are responding individually to road demands – it’s an exhilarating experience.”
Practical Tips for EV Manufacturers Considering Donut Motor Integration
For automotive companies and startups evaluating the integration of Donut motors in their EVs, here are some practical points to bear in mind:
- Evaluate Unsprung Weight: Although compact, in-wheel motors add weight to the wheel assembly. Proper suspension tuning is critical.
- Thermal Management: Design for adequate cooling to ensure motor longevity, especially in high-performance models.
- Software & Control Systems: Invest in robust electronic control units that handle torque vectoring and individual motor management.
- Partner Early: Collaborate closely with Revolution Motors during prototyping to optimize integration and performance.
- Market Education: Prepare marketing and sales teams to communicate the unique benefits to consumers effectively.
Looking Forward: The Future of Donut Motor Technology in EVs
Revolution Motors’ €25M funding milestone positions them as key disruptors in the electric vehicle propulsion sector. As the EV market rapidly grows worldwide, demand for efficient, high-performance motors is skyrocketing. The Donut motor technology perfectly aligns with these trends by enabling:
- Electric vehicles with longer ranges and quicker recharge cycles.
- Greater vehicle design flexibility for new form factors like urban microcars and delivery vans.
- Increased adoption of torque vectoring and advanced safety features.
As electric automakers race to innovate, companies like Revolution Motors spearhead a new era where motors are not just parts but central components of sleek, efficient, and adaptable EV designs.
Conclusion
The Finnish startup Revolution Motors’ successful €25 million fundraising round marks a significant leap in electric vehicle technology. Their pioneering Donut motor – a compact, high-torque, in-wheel electric motor – promises to revolutionize how electric cars are powered, designed, and experienced by drivers. From improved vehicle dynamics to enhanced efficiency and flexible architecture, this breakthrough could set a new industry standard. For EV manufacturers and enthusiasts alike, keeping a close eye on Donut motor developments is essential as the future of sustainable mobility takes shape.