TOYOTA REVIVES THE WHEEL-ENGINE IDEA

By Éric Descarries

The idea is not new, but it has just resurfaced: the wheel-motor technology is back on the scene. By registering a patent application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in October 2023, but published on July 18, Japanese automaker Toyota has revived the principle. However, it has added the use of two helical gears to better support the force applied to them. At the same time, Toyota has managed to minimize the weight of each unit, which would help any vehicle to behave more smoothly.

Toyota has already exploited this principle and applied it to its recent Baby Lunar Cruiser styling study, an indication that this electric technology is evolving.

PICTURE CREDIT: Toyota