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Protean Electric has established itself as an industry leader by becoming the first company to develop and supply in-wheel motors (IWMs) for a mainstream original equipment manufacturer (OEM) passenger car program. This landmark achievement involves the integration of Protean’s advanced technology into the new Renault 5 Turbo 3E (T3E), positioning the company at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) propulsion innovation. This project is a key step in the commercialization of IWMs and reinforces their viability as a scalable solution.
Key Highlights
- Protean Electric is the first company to supply IWMs for a production passenger vehicle from a mainstream OEM.
- The technology is featured in the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which was showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
- The updated Pd18 in-wheel motor solution delivers over 200kW directly to each of the vehicle’s rear wheels.
- This high-performance system enables the T3E to achieve 0–62 mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds.
- The project reinforces the viability of IWMs as a scalable and commercially ready solution for the broader automotive market.
A Landmark OEM Partnership
The collaboration between Protean Electric and Renault marks a pivotal moment for the commercialization of in-wheel motor technology. By securing this project, Protean has demonstrated the scalability and reliability of its systems, moving IWMs from a niche concept to a practical solution for major automotive manufacturers. This successful application in a high-profile vehicle like the Renault 5 Turbo 3E validates the technology’s potential to redefine vehicle design and performance, solidifying Protean Electric’s leadership position among a growing field of competitors in the EV space. The integration underscores the commercial readiness of IWMs for mainstream automotive use.
Advanced Pd18 In-Wheel Motor Technology
At the core of this achievement is Protean Electric’s advanced Pd18 in-wheel motor system. This highly sophisticated solution is engineered to deliver exceptional power and efficiency directly where it is needed—at the wheels. In the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, the system provides over 200kW of direct drive to each rear wheel, eliminating the need for traditional drivetrain components like transmissions and driveshafts. This direct-drive capability results in remarkable performance gains, as evidenced by the T3E’s blistering sub-3.5-second acceleration from 0 to 62 mph. The technology not only boosts performance but also offers vehicle manufacturers greater design freedom and potential improvements in range and user experience.
Pioneering the Future of Electrification
Andrew Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer at Protean Electric, noted the significance of the partnership. “We are thrilled to see Protean’s in-wheel motor technology being integrated into such an iconic vehicle as the Renault 5 Turbo 3E,” he said. “This collaboration represents a significant milestone for the future of vehicle electrification as it shows clearly in-wheel motors have no limits.” Whitehead added that the company looks forward to continuing its work with Renault and other OEMs who are looking to leverage in-wheel motors to create superior electric vehicles for their customers.
About Protean Electric
Protean Electric is a world-leading automotive technology innovator specializing in the development of in-wheel motors. Its flagship product, ProteanDrive, is a fully integrated in-wheel drive solution strategically positioned to play a major role in the global transition to electric mobility. The company’s technology offers OEMs the ability to rethink vehicle architecture, enhance user experience, improve range, and reduce overall vehicle cost. With an extensive intellectual property portfolio of over 330 patents across 75 patent families, Protean Electric operates in the United Kingdom, China, and Turkey. Protean Electric is part of the BEDEO Group, a leading technology firm dedicated to providing smart, sustainable transportation solutions.
For more information, visit www.proteanelectric.com.
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