Finnish EV Startup Raises €25M for In-Wheel Motor Tech
Donut Lab Secures $6.6M to Revolutionize EV Motors with Wheel-Integrated Design
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Donut lab, the innovative spin-off from electric motorcycle manufacturer Verge Motorcycles, has announced a $6.6 million funding round to accelerate the progress and deployment of its groundbreaking hollow hub motor technology. This investment signals strong confidence in Donut Lab’s potential to disrupt the electric vehicle (EV) industry by reimagining powertrain architecture. Alongside the funding, the company is establishing a dedicated Research and Development (R&D) hub in Chippenham, UK, and has welcomed Risto Siilasmaa, a seasoned tech investor and former Nokia chairman, to its board.
The Donut: A Paradigm Shift in EV Motor Technology
Donut Lab’s core innovation centers around the “Donut” – a hollow hub motor designed to slot directly into the wheel rim. This radical departure from conventional EV motor placement, typically under the hood or seat, promises important advantages in weight, cost, and performance. By eliminating the need for components like axles, transmissions, and differentials, Donut lab aims to streamline EV design and unlock new levels of efficiency.
How Does the Donut Motor work?
The concept originated with Verge Motorcycles, who successfully integrated the hollow hub motor into their electric motorcycles.Recognizing the broader applicability of this technology,they established Donut Labs in 2024 to extend its reach across a diverse range of electric vehicles – from e-scooters and drones to electric cars and even semi-trucks.
The benefits are considerable. The 21-inch Donut motor, specifically designed for cars, boasts an impressive 630kW of power and 4,300Nm of torque – figures comparable to those found in high-performance hypercars. Remarkably, it achieves this power output while weighing only 40kg. Donut lab claims this results in the highest torque and power density currently available in the EV motor market.
Overcoming the Challenges of in-Wheel Motors
In-wheel motor designs have historically faced a significant hurdle: unsprung mass. This refers to the weight of components not supported by the vehicle’s suspension system. Excessive unsprung mass can negatively impact handling, ride comfort, and overall vehicle dynamics. Previous attempts to integrate motors directly into the wheels often compromised these critical aspects.
donut Lab asserts it has successfully addressed this challenge through its lightweight design. The company claims the impact of the Donut motor on unsprung mass is negligible, preserving the ride quality and handling characteristics expected of modern vehicles. This breakthrough is crucial for the widespread adoption of in-wheel motor technology.
Beyond Motors: A Full-Stack EV Solution
Donut Lab’s ambitions extend beyond simply manufacturing motors. The company is actively developing a comprehensive suite of EV components, including batteries, software, and computer connectivity systems. This strategic move positions Donut Lab as a potential one-stop shop for EV manufacturers,offering a complete powertrain solution.
Moreover, Donut Lab is exploring applications beyond the automotive industry. The versatility of its technology makes it suitable for aerospace, defense, and robotics, opening up new avenues for growth and innovation.
The Road Ahead: Scaling Enterprising Plans
While the potential of Donut Lab’s technology is undeniable, scaling production and delivering on its ambitious vision will be a significant undertaking. Building batteries, software, and complete EV systems - while simultaneously expanding into diverse industries – requires substantial resources and expertise.
“It demonstrates to us [founders] what we have always believed,that our tech solution is truly groundbreaking,” says Marko Lehtimaki,Donut Lab’s CEO and co-founder,reflecting the confidence within the company.
The EV landscape is rapidly evolving, and Donut Lab faces competition from established players and emerging startups alike. However, with its innovative technology, strategic investments, and a growing team, Donut Lab is well-positioned to become a key player in the future of electric mobility.The coming years will be critical in determining whether Donut Lab can successfully navigate the challenges and realize its full potential.