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Electric vehicle (EV) technology has been steadily advancing, yet few breakthroughs promise as much impact as the innovative “donut motor” introduced by Donut Lab. Unveiled at CES 2025, this compact yet powerful motor redefines the potential of electric mobility. We’ll explore the history of Donut Lab, its innovative products, the specifications of the new motor, and its potential to shape the future of transportation.
What is the Donut Motor?
At its core, the donut motor is a revolutionary in-wheel electric motor shaped like a torus (a donut). Its design integrates directly into the wheel of a vehicle, eliminating the need for traditional drivetrain components such as transmissions, axles, and differentials. This novel approach dramatically reduces the weight of vehicles, simplifies manufacturing, and increases energy efficiency.
Key Specifications
- Weight: 40 kg
- Power Output: 630 kW (~857 horsepower)
- Torque: 4300 Nm
- Applications: Versatile, with specific models designed for cars, motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, and even drones.
These specifications highlight the motor’s capability to provide substantial power and torque while maintaining an exceptionally lightweight design.
A Brief History of Donut Lab
Founded in 2018 by Finnish engineer Marko Lehtimäki, Donut Lab has been at the forefront of EV innovation. The company’s mission has always been clear: to create accessible, efficient, and sustainable electric mobility solutions. Early on, Donut Lab focused on prototyping modular battery systems for e-bikes and scooters, which gained traction in Northern Europe.
Milestones in Donut Lab’s Journey
- 2019: Development of modular battery systems for micromobility vehicles.
- 2021: Release of the first prototype of an in-wheel motor for e-scooters.
- 2023: Collaboration with automotive giants for testing the donut motor on larger vehicles.
- 2025: Unveiling of the revolutionary donut motor at CES.
Technical Innovations and Features
In-Wheel Integration
The donut motor’s placement inside the wheel represents a paradigm shift in EV design. By eliminating bulky drivetrains, the motor not only reduces vehicle weight but also frees up interior space, paving the way for new vehicle designs.
Enhanced Efficiency
Traditional EV motors lose energy through mechanical components like axles and gearboxes. The donut motor, with its direct-wheel integration, minimizes energy loss, resulting in higher efficiency and extended range.
Scalable Applications
Donut Lab’s modular design allows for customization across various vehicle types:
- Cars: The 21-inch motor delivers industry-leading power and torque for performance EVs.
- Motorcycles: A 17-inch version provides an optimal balance of power and agility.
- Scooters and E-Bikes: Compact 12-inch motors make urban mobility more efficient.
- Drones: Lightweight 3 kW motors are ideal for high-performance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Comparison with Previous Technologies
Traditional Motors vs. Donut Motor
Unlike conventional EV motors, the donut motor’s integration eliminates the need for external moving parts, offering:
- Reduced Maintenance: Fewer mechanical parts mean lower wear and tear.
- Lighter Vehicles: Simplified design cuts down overall weight.
- Cost Efficiency: Streamlined manufacturing processes reduce production costs.
Donut Lab’s Earlier Products
Before the donut motor, Donut Lab gained recognition for modular battery systems. While these batteries laid the groundwork for scalable EV solutions, they lacked the transformative potential of the donut motor.
Challenges and Criticism
As with any groundbreaking technology, the donut motor faces challenges:
- Mass Imbalance: Early in-wheel motors often suffered from balance issues, causing vibrations. Donut Lab’s engineers claim to have resolved this with advanced algorithms and precision engineering.
- Cost of Adoption: Despite lower production costs, integrating new technology into vehicles requires significant investment by manufacturers.
- Durability Concerns: The motor’s exposure to road conditions raises questions about long-term reliability.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
The donut motor has the potential to disrupt the automotive and micromobility markets. Here’s how it could shape the future:
Affordable Electric Vehicles
By simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs, Donut Lab’s technology could make EVs accessible to a wider audience. Lower entry-level prices would help accelerate the global transition to sustainable mobility.
Urban Mobility Revolution
Compact versions of the motor, designed for e-scooters and e-bikes, can revolutionize urban transport by offering efficient and affordable options for commuters.
Performance Vehicles
The high power output and torque of the donut motor make it a game-changer for sports cars and motorcycles. Automakers could leverage this technology to create high-performance EVs that rival traditional combustion-engine vehicles.
Environmental Impact
With fewer components and greater efficiency, donut motors contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of EV manufacturing and operation.
The donut motor is more than just an innovative product—it’s a glimpse into the future of electric mobility. Donut Lab’s commitment to making EVs more efficient, affordable, and sustainable could redefine the industry.
As the technology matures and adoption increases, the donut motor may well become a cornerstone of next-generation electric transportation. Whether you’re an automaker, an EV enthusiast, or simply a curious observer, this groundbreaking innovation is worth watching closely.
