The model on show in Shanghai was an all-wheel drive version, with all the wheels driven by ProteanDrive Pd18s.
In March 2022, Dongfeng, Weifu and Protean signed a three-party Partnership and Cooperation Framework Agreement to fit ProteanDrive in-wheel motor products on multiple vehicle models.
According to DFM, by adding IWMs, the Voyah Zhiguang’s space is optimised by moving the powertrain closer to the wheels, increasing floor, frunk and trunk space. In comparison to two e-axles, the front and rear cabin space of the Voyah Zhiguang is increased by 50% and the overall weight of the vehicle is reduced by 104 kg. This weight reduction comes from IWMs being lighter overall than two e-axles, due to less parts being needed in an in-wheel motor.
As well as space saving, IWMs provide benefits to vehicle performance. Wheel end torque response time is more than 10 times faster, vehicle handling performance is improved by over 17% and overall system efficiency is improved 5%, again compared to e-axles. The Voyah Zhiguang also has torque vector control enabled by IWMs, which can achieve functions such as in-situ steering and three kinds of drive mode with adaptive intelligent switching.
Packaged into an 18″ wheel rim
Torque demand control over CAN bus
High torque direct drive (no gearing) for optimal efficiency
Permanent magnet synchronous radial flux machine with outer rotor
Design lifetime of 300,000km or 15 years with verification through bench and vehicle durability testing
Integrated friction brake
Integrated wheel bearing
Integrated inverter and control electronics with distributed architecture
Developed in accordance with ISO26262 functional safety standard
Up to 2ms response time for advanced vehicle dynamics and active safety control
