YASA has developed a groundbreaking in-wheel motor for electric vehicles (EVs). It delivers unprecedented power in a lightweight design. The new motor weighs just 28 pounds (12.7 kilograms). It can produce up to 1,000 horsepower at peak performance. It can also sustain 469 to 536 horsepower for extended periods. This surpasses YASA’s previous record of 738 horsepower in a 29-pound motor.
Compact Power for High-Performance EVs
For comparison, the 2025 Nissan Leaf has a single motor with 214 horsepower. The high-performance Tesla Model S uses three motors to produce around 1,020 horsepower. YASA’s motor offers supercar-level performance in a compact package. Its efficiency is a major leap forward.
The motor uses axial flux technology. Traditional radial flux motors have a cylindrical rotor with a surrounding stator. Axial flux motors use a disc-shaped rotor and stator. Magnetic flux runs along the shaft’s axis. This design makes motors smaller and lighter while keeping power high.
Significant Weight Savings for EV Design
YASA says the motor is scalable and avoids rare materials. This makes it accessible to many EV makers. Its compact size allows big weight reductions. Using in-wheel motors could save about 440 pounds (200 kg) compared to traditional powertrains. Vehicles designed for this motor could save up to 1,100 pounds (500 kg).
The system also includes regenerative braking. It recycles energy normally lost as heat back into the battery. This could remove the need for traditional friction brakes. The result is even more weight reduction and space optimization.
The Future of EV Design
Currently, the motor targets high-performance EVs and supercars. But axial flux technology could transform the wider EV market. It enables longer-range vehicles with more power and lighter parts. Designs could be more efficient and aerodynamic. Less space for the powertrain could mean more interior room. EV makers could use this space for cargo or passengers.
