Electric Tricycles Undergo Technological Transformation, Driven by Advances in Motor Systems

Electric tricycles have achieved status in many urban and rural areas as a critical mode of transport and are maintaining their momentum as our world looks to shift to greener mobility. The benefits of an electric tricycle are many, including a straightforward design, low energy use, versatility and affordability which makes them well-suited for short-haul logistics, last-mile delivery, sanitation, agricultural transport and for everyday commuting. The rapid uptick in restrictions on three wheeled, fuel powered vehicles and the subsequent mass influx of electric options along with the electric motor—the single greatest influencing factor controlling the operational performance of an electric tricycle.

High Performance Motors Allow Increased Load Capacity and Range

Generally speaking, in order for an electric tricycle today to function properly and efficiently, industrial level performance is being demanded from its equipment by manufacturers, resulting in a motor that delivers far more than basic propulsion. Electric tricycles now often depend on a motor that offers high starting torque, a high output power performance for a long or sustained durations, and high rugged durability when called upon for loads and hill climbing—even under strenuous circumstances. Brushed DC motors are being replaced in quicker fashions with more efficient, more durable, Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) and Brushless DC Motors (BLDC).

Efficiency ratings exceeding 85% means a PMSM/BLDC will minimize the energy loss, provide a greater distance travelled on a single recharge, and once several connections are made with an intelligent controller can guarantee a very smooth ride with acceleration, electronic limited throttle, regenerative braking, as well as vehicle total operation safety features that can also share information to negotiate the balancing act between performance and efficiency.

Regional Customization Used to Segment the Market

Electric tricycles will continue to be used in different terrain like urban alleys and rural dirt roads, resulting in increased customization. Motor manufacturers have started to engage in consultative work with OEMs, allowing manufacturers to participate in customizing their motors based on specifications regarding ratings (power), voltage, mounting design, cooling style, and output shaft design. Advanced options for motor sealing, corrosion resistance, and thermal protection can allow electric tricycles to be suited for use in rugged circumstances in humid environments, with dust, and during either higher or lower intensive temperature fluctuations for longer periods of benefits relating to durability and performance.

Integrated and Intelligent Drive Systems Gaining Traction

While IoT is enhancing technology such as battery management, we are also seeing electric tricycle powertrains smarten up and integrate. To date, integrated systems (motor and controller as one unit) are far more prevalent for many benefits such as, less wiring, simple interfacing, reduced footprint for installation, and performance. When the electronic control is designed on a chassis component with sensors and control algorithms it will maximise the utility of the motor in a way which implements value adding outcomes such as remote diagnostic capability, real time status monitoring, and predictive maintenance. This will push electric tricycles a little further down the road to the future of connected smart micro-mobility.

Future Expectations: Sustainable and Connected Mobility

In the future, electric tricycles will no longer just be viewed as a mode of transport. They are becoming an important tool for developing smart urban mobility and decentralized logistics networks. As already noted above, the two critical features consisted of high-efficient and intelligent motors. With further advances in motor configurations, materials, cooling systems and power control algorithms; electric tricycles are set to position themselves with better overall performance and lifespan to reduce total cost of ownership which will proliferate electric tricycles in both mature and emerging markets.