Turntide Technologies has introduced a new modular axial flux electric drive unit (EDU) designed to streamline electrification efforts across various industries. This integrated package combines the motor, inverter, and gearing, featuring a shared cooling system for enhanced efficiency. The company highlights that its axial flux design offers a significant improvement in torque density, boasting 53% higher performance compared to traditional radial flux motors within a 58% smaller volume and 37% reduced weight.
Advanced Performance and Scalability
The new EDU platform supports 400 V and higher voltage systems. It is available in single or stacked configurations, offering a scalable power range from 73 kW to 220 kW nominal and an impressive peak output of 300 kW to 700 kW. Its design is targeted for a wide array of demanding applications, including off-highway vehicles, construction equipment, powersports, commercial vehicles, and the automotive sector.
Leveraging the inherent low-speed, high-torque characteristics of the axial flux motor, Turntide’s EDU simplifies gear designs. This reduction in mechanical complexity translates to lower weight and reduced maintenance requirements, contributing to overall operational efficiency and cost savings.
Reducing OEM Development Timelines
Turntide is positioning its EDU as a pre-validated solution for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aiming to electrify their products. This approach eliminates the need for extensive component-level integration, a process that can typically add months or even years to product development cycles. “By handling the integration, validation, and testing upfront, our EDU decreases the risk, time and cost of bringing new products to market,” stated CEO Steve Hornyak.
Real-World Durability Test Success
The platform’s robustness was recently put to the test at King of the Hammers, a notoriously challenging off-road race in the United States. Turntide’s Sierra Echo-R, a purpose-built EV, successfully qualified for and competed in the Desert Challenge course. According to the company, the vehicle completed over 600 miles of rugged terrain without experiencing any drivetrain issues, underscoring the EDU’s reliability in extreme conditions.
