The 2024 Paris Auto Show has once again proven to be a hotbed of automotive innovation, with a jaw-dropping electric vehicle prototype stealing the spotlight.
Japanese component maker THK brought its LSR-05 electric vehicle to the show, marking its first showing outside Japan. The company, known for its linear motion parts, has created a prototype that brings several new technologies to electric vehicles.
The LSR-05 stands out with its unique motor setup. Two 93-kilowatt motors sit inside the rear wheels, working alongside a 220-kilowatt front motor.
The charging system also removes the need for cables. Power moves from transmitters in the ground to receivers in the car. The car can lower itself on its suspension to get closer to the charging pad, which makes charging more efficient and lets THK make the receiver smaller and lighter.
THK created new seats, requiring less mounting room than standard car seats. This design gives passengers more space while keeping all adjustment options. The flat floor adds to the open feeling inside.
Other key features include all-wheel steering for better handling, active suspension with magnetic fluid dampers, and an electronic braking system.
Shiro Nakamura led the LSR-05's design through his company SN Design Platform. His past work includes the first Nissan Leaf and the GT-R sports car.
THK plans to build on this work with a new prototype, the LSR-07. While THK hasn't said if it will make cars for sale, the LSR-05 shows how the company can use its parts knowledge in new ways.
The LSR-05 brings fresh ideas to electric cars. Its mix of in-wheel motors, wireless charging, and smart design points to what future electric cars might offer. As carmakers work to produce better electric vehicles, THK's work adds new options to consider.
🗣️ If you were going to purchase an EV, which of these factors would be most important to you?
🔘 Cost 💰
🔘 Battery range 🔋
🔘 Power and speed 💪
🔘 The way it looks 😎
🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind
As a consumer possibly thinking of making your next car an EV, there are some key points to consider to help you decide.
You can save money on fuel, with electric charging costing significantly less per mile of power than gasoline, and half as much to maintain and repair. And with zero tailpipe pollution, EVs are like a breath of fresh air for our cities, with their operating efficiency also significantly better than gas-powered cars even when most of their power comes from fossil fuel-based power plants.
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