Hyundai Mobis reinvents the wheel

    The 90-deg rotating wheel can aid in parking, crab walking and zero turn.

    Published On Dec 18, 2021 08:00:00 AM

    16,074 Views

    Hyundai Mobis reinvents the wheel

    Hyundai Mobis has developed a next-generation automobile wheel technology that allows 90-degree rotation parking and in-place rotation, which is essential for making PBVs (Purpose Built Vehicles).

    • Concept was first unveiled in CES 2018
    • This module removes the need for mechanical connections between parts
    • Hyundai Mobis aims for PBV applications by 2025

    The e-corner module, which integrates the steering, braking, suspension and driving systems into a wheel, shifts the paradigm of an automobile to use the mechanical axis to connect the steering wheel. It is also recognised as the core technology for future smart city mobility.

    The concept corner module was first unveiled at the 2018 CES. Now, Hyundai Mobis has successfully redefined the concept for practical use on vehicles and has developed an ECU for control. Hyundai has also completed the functional testing, and once it is done with reliability verification and a feasibility study on mass production, it plans to begin undertaking mass production orders from global car makers for its application.

    Key benefits

    The biggest advantage of the e-corner module is that it does not require any mechanical connection between parts, which thereby allows better use of space within the vehicle. Not only does it make it easier to change the wheelbase, but it also ensures much more flexibility in designing the direction of doors and the size of the vehicle. It is essential for making PBVs that are designed to provide mobility services, for example, for cafes and hospitals.

    Compared to traditional 30-degree rotation, the e-module allows 90-degree rotation of the wheel when needed, for example, parking and enables crab (sideways) driving and zero-turn – rotation without moving forward or backward. It is also expected to increase the agility of a vehicle running through the narrow streets of the city and accordingly improve the urban driving environment.

    “The e-corner module is an advanced technology that not many have had much success with, regarding its mass production at a global level," said Hyundai Mobis. They claim they have managed to successfully develop this, with the requirements being to combine the steering, braking, suspension and driving systems into one wheel, while at the same time, ensuring driving safety.

    Unlike other auto parts manufacturers who make specific parts, Hyundai Mobis says it is capable of developing key parts that are used in vehicles – including steering, braking, connectivity and electrification parts – and the synergy between these parts has been helpful in developing the e-corner module.

    Hyundai Mobis plans to develop a skateboard module by 2023 for the implementation of real-world vehicle performance through the integrated control of four e-corner modules and then combining it with the automatic driving control technology to ultimately provide a PBV mobility solution in 2025.

    What do you think of Hyundai Mobis’ latest innovation? Let us know in the comments below. 

    Also see:

    Steering coming in the way? Hyundai has a foldable solution

    Hyundai Mobis reveals new ‘lighting and moving’ grille technology

    Hyundai Mobis develops system for driving and parking in narrow spaces

    Hyundai Cars

    Copyright (c) Autocar Professional. All rights reserved.

    Comments

    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now

    Search By Car Price

    Poll of the month

    The Creta will be the third Hyundai N-Line model in India. Should more mass-market brands have sporty sub-brands?

    Yes, it's something special for enthusiasts

     

    18.43%

    Yes, but only if there is increased performance

     

    44.32%

    No, it's just a gimmick to increase the price

     

    29.35%

    It doesn't always work; just look at Tata JTP

     

    7.90%

    Total Votes : 1557
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe