- EXEDY’s in-wheel motor will power Renault’s Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV scheduled for launch in 2027.
- The direct-drive system improves efficiency, vehicle control, safety, and design flexibility.
EXEDY Corporation has secured a significant milestone in advanced electric mobility as its EXEDY In-Wheel Motor technology has been chosen for deployment in the Renault 5 Turbo 3E electric vehicle from Renault SA, which is expected to enter the market in 2027. The selection represents a notable development for the passenger vehicle industry because it is expected to become the first commercially released passenger car from a European automaker equipped with an in-wheel motor system. The technology was developed by Protean Electric Ltd., the company acquired by EXEDY in March 2026.
The selected propulsion solution incorporates a direct-drive architecture that eliminates the need for conventional gears and drive shafts. By reducing the number of mechanical transmission components, the system minimizes power transmission losses and supports improved drivetrain efficiency. This approach allows electrical energy to be transferred more directly to the wheels, contributing to overall vehicle performance while simplifying certain aspects of the drivetrain layout.
Key Technology Highlights of the Selected In-Wheel Motor System
The in-wheel motor integrates mechanical, electrical, and control functions into a compact unit positioned within the wheel assembly. This design enables independent control of all four wheels with high responsiveness. Such capability can improve vehicle stability, enhance handling characteristics, and strengthen safety performance under varying driving conditions. The architecture also provides engineers with greater flexibility when optimizing vehicle dynamics and control strategies.
Key Benefits of the In-Wheel Motor System
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Direct-drive architecture | Reduces power transmission losses |
| Independent wheel control | Improves stability, handling, and safety |
| Integrated wheel-mounted motor | Combines mechanical, electrical, and control functions |
| Compact drivetrain layout | Supports cabin space optimization and design flexibility |
Industry Significance
The commercial adoption of this technology by a major European vehicle manufacturer highlights growing interest in alternative EV drivetrain architectures. By integrating propulsion directly into the wheels, manufacturers can unlock additional packaging opportunities, improve interior space utilization, and create new design possibilities. The deployment also demonstrates the strategic value of EXEDY’s acquisition of Protean Electric and its efforts to expand its position in advanced electrified mobility technologies across global markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Renault selecting EXEDY’s in-wheel motor technology?
The selection is significant because it marks the expected commercial introduction of a passenger car from a European automaker equipped with an in-wheel motor system. The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is scheduled for launch in 2027 and will utilize technology developed by Protean Electric, a subsidiary acquired by EXEDY. The adoption demonstrates increasing industry confidence in wheel-integrated propulsion systems and highlights their potential to improve efficiency, vehicle dynamics, packaging flexibility, and overall EV performance.
How does an in-wheel motor improve electric vehicle performance?
An in-wheel motor places the propulsion unit directly within the wheel assembly, eliminating the need for traditional gears and drive shafts. This direct-drive configuration helps reduce transmission losses and enables highly responsive independent control of each wheel. As a result, vehicle stability, handling precision, and safety can be enhanced. The architecture also supports improved space utilization and greater flexibility for vehicle designers seeking innovative layouts and advanced performance characteristics.
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