Slovenia’s Elaphe is placing a strong emphasis on performance applications for its in-wheel electric motors.
During CES 2025, Elaphe introduced the Sonic 1, a sleek electric motor designed to work seamlessly with high-performance brakes. This is a notable achievement as in-wheel motors typically take up the same space as brake components. By slimming down the motor, Elaphe is able to accommodate larger 400-millimeter brake rotors alongside the motor hardware within a 21-inch front wheel, as stated in a press release.
The Sonic 1 is specifically designed for electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrids. It delivers 268 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque in its default configuration, with the option for higher power outputs through tuning. However, each motor adds 88 pounds of unsprung weight, which could pose challenges when fine-tuning for ride and handling.
Italdesign Quintessenza concept
The Italdesign Quintessenza GT concept showcased Elaphe’s in-wheel motors, featured as a grand tourer with an elevated ride height and a pickup-style bed. Italdesign claims a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 2.5 seconds, which drops to 2.2 seconds with performance tires. A 150-kWh battery pack positioned beneath the floor provides an estimated range of 466 miles, although the testing cycle for this figure is unspecified.
Elaphe’s in-wheel motors were initially planned for use in the Lordstown Endurance pickup truck and the highly efficient Lightyear 0 sedan, neither of which made it to mass production. In 2023, Elaphe announced a collaboration with McLaren Applied Technologies, the technological division of the renowned race team and supercar manufacturer, to integrate its motor technology into “highly efficient and hyper-responsive electric vehicles.”
Italdesign Quintessenza concept
In-wheel motors offer the advantage of relocating propulsion components to the vehicle’s corners, enhancing packaging efficiency. Despite the associated trade-offs, major automakers are showing increased interest in this technology. Ferrari has explored patenting an in-wheel motor design for performance EVs, while Ford has been testing pickup trucks equipped with what appear to be in-wheel motors.
Elaphe is not the only company focusing on slimming down in-wheel motors to achieve greater packaging flexibility and reduce unsprung weight. Donut Lab also introduced a range of motors at CES 2025, boasting exceptional power density and a variety of sizes suitable for applications ranging from automobiles to drones.