Donut Lab and WATT EV Partner on In-Wheel Motor Skateboard Platform

On December 16, Donut Lab and WATT Electric Vehicle Company announced a strategic partnership focused on advancing electric vehicle architectures. The collaboration brings together WATT’s module-to-chassis battery skateboard with Donut Lab’s in-wheel motor technology to create a highly flexible EV platform.
The two companies confirmed that a fully functional prototype skateboard platform will be publicly demonstrated at CES 2026, highlighting a new approach to scalable electric vehicle development aimed at both passenger and commercial applications.
Donut Lab and WATT EV skateboard platform architecture
The foundation of the partnership is WATT’s PACES platform, a low-volume aluminium EV skateboard designed for rapid adaptation across vehicle segments. This structure integrates the battery system directly into the chassis, reducing redundant components and improving structural efficiency while maintaining modularity.
Donut Lab’s contribution comes in the form of advanced in-wheel motors integrated into the rear axle. The initial configuration uses two direct-drive motors, with a four-wheel-drive version planned for introduction later in 2026 as development progresses.
In-wheel motor control and efficiency advantages
A defining feature of the Donut Lab and WATT EV skateboard platform is the ability to independently control each in-wheel motor with millisecond-level precision. This enables:

• Precise torque vectoring for improved handling

• Optimized traction across varying road conditions

• Enhanced regenerative braking efficiency

The direct-drive layout eliminates traditional drivetrain components such as gearboxes and drive shafts, resulting in lower system weight, simplified packaging, and reduced mechanical losses.
Broad vehicle adaptability and use cases
The combined platform has been engineered to support a wide range of vehicle types without major structural changes. Potential applications include:

• Lightweight recreational vehicles such as beach buggies

• High-performance sports cars

• Urban and last-mile commercial delivery vehicles

By freeing up interior and underbody space, the architecture allows manufacturers greater design freedom while maintaining high energy transfer efficiency and simplified system integration. The Donut Lab and WATT EV skateboard platform reflects a growing industry shift toward modular, software-controlled electric vehicle systems that can be rapidly tailored to different mobility needs while improving efficiency and reducing overall complexity.