Awards And Certifications From December 4
Protean's In-Wheel Electric Drive Earns "Most Promising Technology" Honors From Car And Driver Magazine: Protean Electric's advanced in-wheel electric drive has been named one of the 10 Most Promising Technologies for 2013 by Car and Driver magazine. Being named to this list is evidence that Protean Electric's in-wheel electric drive has a bright future in the global auto industry, according to Car and Driver, the world's largest auto enthusiast magazine. This list of Most Promising Technologies accompanies Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars celebration, which has existed for more than three decades. Car and Driver's technical director, Don Sherman, author of the Most Promising Technology feature, is a strong believer in the potential of in-wheel and wheel-hub motors for coming electric and hybrid-electric automobiles. Features of Protean's in-wheel motors include fuel economy improvements up to 30 percent depending on battery size; highest torque density of any of today's leading electric propulsion systems; 81 kW (110 hp) and 800 Nm (590 lb.-ft. torque) in each motor; a weight of only 31 kg (68 lbs.) per motor; a unit that fits within the space of a conventional 18-inch road wheel; and superior regenerative braking capabilities, which allow up to 85 percent of the available kinetic energy to be recovered during braking. Protean has been awarded 25 patents for its unique technology and design, and 84 additional patent applications have been filed internationally and with specific countries in North America, Europe and Asia. Protean also has won the prestigious 2012 Technology Pioneers Award from the World Economic Forum as being one of most promising start-up technology companies in the world. In addition, Protean has developed multiple demonstration vehicles, including a Ford F150 pick-up truck, Volvo C30, Vauxhall Vivaro cargo van, Guangzhou Automobile Company Trumpchi, and BRABUS full electric and hybrid vehicles, based on the Mercedes-Benz E Class. More at www.proteanelectric.com.
