Bentley Motors has concluded a three-year research study intended to transform EV powertrains, using a fully integrated e-axle that doesn’t use rare earth magnets. 

Bentley’s OCTOPUS (Optimised Components, Test and simulatiOn, toolkits for Powertrains which integrate Ultra high-speed motor Solutions) study led to an electric drive system that eliminates the need for both rare earth magnets and copper windings, delivering a package that the company says is both cost-effective and recyclable.                  

Bentley engineers designed OCTOPUS to improve motor, power electronics and packaging transmission design, adding next-generation materials, manufacturing processes, simulation and test cycles. 

Director of Powertrain Engineering Stefan Fischer said, “There are challenges and package constraints on the viability and flexibility of EV powertrains that are able to fully support EV architectures. With the industry, technologies and cars changing faster than ever before, research projects such as OCTOPUS are crucial to delivering innovative technologies and overcoming challenges for the next generation of mobility solutions.”

The company plans to introduce the first fully electric Bentley by 2026.              

Source: Bentley