Finnish Tech Innovation Secures €25 Million Funding to Integrate 'Donut' Motors into Electric Vehicle Wheels
Donut Lab, a Finnish e-mobility startup, is set to transform the electric vehicle (EV) industry with a €25 million investment in its innovative in-wheel hub motor technology[1][2][3]. This technology, known as the "Donut" motor, integrates a hollow electric motor directly into the wheel rim, eliminating traditional drivetrain parts like axles, transmissions, and differentials[2].
The Donut motor, first developed by Verge Motorcycles, offers multiple benefits: it reduces overall vehicle weight, simplifies vehicle architecture, improves efficiency, and potentially lowers manufacturing costs[1][2][4]. By addressing current industry challenges such as heavier EVs and expensive drivetrain components, Donut Lab aims to revolutionize EV propulsion and become a one-stop shop for EV manufacturers[1][2][4].
To support this scale-up, Donut Lab has established a new R&D hub in Chippenham, UK. This expansion is bolstered by tech investor and former Nokia chairman Risto Siilasmaa joining the company board, emphasizing Donut Lab's drive to accelerate innovation and market adoption[2].
Beyond motors, Donut Lab and its related entities are developing complementary technologies including batteries, software, and computer connectivity aimed at enhancing electric mobility solutions. One example is Donut Defence, a subsidiary spun off from Donut Lab, which focuses on adapting the Donut motor technology for the defense sector, addressing military-specific needs such as stealth, modularity, high torque, and lightweight designs[5].
Donut Lab's flagship innovation, the Donut motor, delivers impressive power and torque. For instance, its 21-inch car motor delivers 630kW of power and 4,300Nm of torque, while weighing just 40kg[1]. The company claims the highest torque and power density of any EV motor on the market[1].
Donut Lab is not limiting its ambitions to the traditional auto industry. It is targeting applications outside this sector, including aerospace, defense, and robotics[1]. The startup aims to apply the same concept to various electric vehicles, including e-scooters, drones, electric cars, and semi-trucks[1].
However, this hefty task is not without challenges, even for deep-pocketed firms. Nevertheless, Donut Lab is optimistic about its potential impact on the electric vehicle sector and beyond, with its innovative technology and strategic expansion[1].
References: [1] https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/11/22779678/donut-lab-e-mobility-startup-in-wheel-motor-ev-funding [2] https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/donut-lab-raises-25-mn-seed-funding-to-develop-in-wheel-motors-2021-11-11/ [3] https://www.autocar.co.uk/business-news/industry/donut-lab-raises-25m-for-in-wheel-electric-motor-technology [4] https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2021/11/11/donut-lab-raises-25mn-seed-funding-to-develop-in-wheel-electric-motor-technology/?sh=65c0729c62d7 [5] https://www.donutlab.com/donut-defence/
Science and technology are at the core of Donut Lab's revolutionary approach, as they develop advanced in-wheel hub motor technology for various industries, including electric vehicles, aerospace, defense, and robotics. Finance and business are crucial to this effort, with a €25 million investment supporting their R&D hub expansion in Chippenham, UK, and tech investor Risto Siilasmaa joining the company board to accelerate innovation and market adoption.
