Michelin Develops Revolutionary Electric Cars Active Wheel Technology

The Active Wheel frees automobile designers from the restrictions posed by the need for engine, transmission, drive shaft, differential and exhaust systems. Imagine the possibilities.

The Michelin Active Wheel is an intelligent wheel capable of propelling cars without gasoline, while ensuring suspension and braking functions and providing unrivalled road handling and comfort. This is because of a miniature drive engine and an electrical suspension system incorporated into the wheel. These technologies developed by Michelin have made it possible to completely rethink the car.

The most advanced illustration of this achievement was in the new Venturi Volage, which was unveiled in a world premiere at the 2008 Paris Motor Show.

The wheels, while still in development over at Michelin will be used in WILL, a  vehicle developed in partnership with Heuliez and Orange.

A 7 kilogram (14.4 pound) in-wheel motor forms the heart of the Michelin Active Wheel. Packing in a sophisticated active shock absorption system, with its own dedicated motor, and disk braking brings the wheel to a hefty 43 kg (95 pounds).

Together, the two front wheels deliver a steady 30KW (41 horsepower), which can spurt up to 82 hp for short sprints. The Will should do 0-100 km (0 – 62 mph) in 10 seconds and will have a max speed of 140 km/h (87 mph).