McLaren Applied & Elaphe Partner to Make EV Powertrains More Responsive & Efficient

The UK's McLaren Applied has partnered with in-wheel motor specialists Elaphe to help automakers boost overall electric vehicle (EV) performance. The British engineering and technology group is combining its IPG5 800V silicon carbide inverter with Elaphe’s range of in-wheel motors creating a system that will enhance EV packaging, efficiency and driving dynamics.

The combined powertrain solution saves space, unlocking new possibilities for EV packaging.

McLaren Applied’s IPG5 is highly controllable, offering variable switching frequencies and unparalleled motor response.

The variability in switching frequency up to 32kHz enables engineers to use a faster, more efficient and lightweight drivetrain.

The next-generation IPG5 800V silicon carbide inverter can power electric motors to more than 400kW peak, and 250 kW continuous.

Stephen Lambert, Head of Electrification at McLaren Applied, says: “We believe efficiency and driving dynamics will play an important part in the next waves of electrification. Our IPG5 800V inverter enables customers to run different switching frequencies. And with variable switching frequencies comes the ability to run higher speed motors that are smaller and lighter. By combining IPG5 with Elaphe’s high speed in-wheel motors, we’re not only making the EV powertrain more responsive and efficient, we’re making it more cost-effective too. That’s a compelling proposition.”

“Elaphe is on a mission to make cars safer, more convenient and more exciting to drive. This is why we are fully committed to removing all mechanical constraints and making the powertrain software defined,” adds Dr. Gorazd Gotovac, CTO of Elaphe Propulsion Technologies. “An efficient and highly responsive powertrain system is at the core of this, which is why McLaren Applied is the most natural partner and their IPG5 inverter is a perfect fit for our system. Combined with our motor control and powertrain control software it provides unprecedented controllability and efficiency.”

McLaren Applied offers expertise in electrification, connectivity, control and analytics.