|
I like the concept of hub motors for the interior space efficiency and the lack of drivetrain losses.
I don't like the concept of hub motors because, as a former vehicle designer, I had the realization that I want the bits in vulnerable areas to be rugged, simple, cheap, and easy to service. I want the expensive bits to be enclosed in relative safety. Rims are out there as the second line of defense against major road impacts and they do get bent with some frequency. They are in a harsher environment as far as grit, moisture, vibration, etc. than your typical engine in an engine bay, even though it's only inches away. Rims are easy and relatively cheap to repair or replace. I can't imagine a hub motor that could be as light, cheap, and durable as a rim. For those reasons alone I would vote for having the motor in a more interior, protected location.
And there are other mundane practical matters to consider. Would the hub motor still use a conventional rim? If not, using a standard tire changer to service the tires could become an adventure.
|