Michelin Combines Power, Suspension and Braking in the "Active Wheel"

The idea of a motor retrofitted into the hub or wheel of a vehicle to propel it is not new. In fact, there have been many prototype electric and hybrid electric vehicles that have used such technologies, though none are in mass production as of yet. But, now Michelin is taking the idea of hub motors to the next level. Michelin has created a hub or wheel motor dubbed the "Active Wheel" and has incorporated the power, suspension and braking systems all in one package (source: greencars.com).

As well as the main electric drive motor that powers the vehicle there is a secondary motor that will be fitted vertically across the wheel that will power the active suspension system. The suspension in the Active Wheel is electronically controlled and can adjust at a rapid rate of 3/1000ths of a second. With such a fast reaction time, there is no need to worry about how smooth the ride will be. The ventilated brakes will be larger than that of the conventional braking system allowing for a more compact fitting (source: greencar.com). Put it all together and you have the Active Wheel.

Michelin sites several reasons why this technology is so exciting besides the fact that it will help out environment. To start with, the Active Wheel system would totally eliminate the need for some of the heaviest parts on a vehicle; namely the engine, gearbox, clutch, transmission and all the suspension parts. Why is this good news? Well with all that weight gone, the vehicle is going to weigh significantly less and thus be much more energy (fuel) efficient. Another bonus to those bulky parts being absent is the fact that there will now be more room in the front of the vehicle (where the engine would normally sit). Now engineers are free to look at ways to make the vehicle safer by installing impact absorbing materials for example (source: greencar.com).

Michelin says that the technology can be used in the front or the back a vehicle to make vehicles two wheel drive or installed in all four wheels for a true "all-wheel" drive system. There have already been two prototypes made featuring the Active Wheel. One is an all-wheel drive sporty looking vehicle called the Venturi Volage and the other is a smaller European style front wheel drive car called the WILL. The Volage is said to be ready for a limited production in 2012 and the WILL is scheduled for roll-out in 2010 for professional drivers, fleets and municipalities in Europe with John Q. Public having to wait another year or so (source: greencar.com).

While the future of in hub motors is bright, Michelin's Active Wheel technology may be even brighter and is certainly the next level as it incorporates power, suspension and braking in an all-in-one package. At this rate in a couple of years, those futuristic cars seen in the movies may not look so futuristic after all.