what is the purposes of a clutch on electric motor

What Is the Purpose of a Clutch on an Electric Motor?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity by the day, and with their increasing adoption comes the need to enhance their performance and efficiency. One technology that has gained attention in recent times is torque vectoring, which allows for the variation of power delivered to each wheel independently. In this article, we will explore the concept of a clutch on an electric motor and its purpose.

Torque Vectoring Technology

Torque vectoring technology is designed to provide a vehicle with the ability to vary the power delivered to each wheel. This can be achieved through several methods, including using two separate motors, one for each wheel. However, as we will discuss later, this approach has its drawbacks. Another way to achieve torque vectoring is by using a single electric motor and a dual-clutch system.

GKN's eTwinster

In February, engineering firm GKN Automotive announced the development of a new torque-vectoring option for electric drive called eTwinster. The system combines an electric motor with a dual-clutch system to provide quick control over the torque applied to the wheels independently of one another. This technology aims to increase stability, responsiveness, and agility in EVs.

Why Not Use Two Electric Motors?

During an interview, Theo Gassmann, GKN's Advanced Engineering Director, discussed the pros and cons of using two electric motors versus a single motor with a clutch system. While using two motors would provide additional torque vectoring potential, it also comes with its own set of challenges. These include increased cost, complexity, and performance limitations.

In contrast, a single motor with a clutch system can offer similar benefits without the added drawbacks. For instance, the eTwinster system allows for the application of negative torque to one side and positive torque to the other side, providing more flexibility in terms of power distribution.

The use of a clutch on an electric motor is designed to provide a vehicle with the ability to vary the power delivered to each wheel independently. GKN's eTwinster system is a prime example of this technology, combining an electric motor with a dual-clutch system to enhance stability, responsiveness, and agility in EVs.

While using two electric motors may offer additional torque vectoring potential, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The single-motor-clutch system offers a more cost-effective and efficient solution for achieving torque vectoring, making it an attractive option for the future of EV technology.

What is the purposes of a clutch on electric motor