evolito Electric Motors: Filling the Gap Left by YASA

YASA Acquisition and the Emergence of Evolito

In July, Mercedes-Benz completed the acquisition of British electric motor company YASA, specializing in “axial-flux” technology, for an undisclosed fee. YASA’s motors garnered significant attention within the electric vehicle sector due to their efficiency, high power density, compact size, and reduced weight.

Notably, Rolls-Royce, renowned for its jet engines, integrated YASA motors into its all-electric aircraft, the “Spirit of Innovation,” which successfully concluded a 15-minute test flight.

A Pre-Acquisition Spin-Off

Recent information reveals a more complex aspect to the YASA acquisition. Prior to being acquired by Mercedes-Benz, a new entity, Evolito, was established, inheriting an electric motor designed for the aerospace industry.

This motor is characterized as ultra-high-performance and lightweight. Evolito is positioned to continue development in aerospace, building upon YASA’s accomplishments in the automotive sector.

Waypoint Capital and Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE) are the primary investors in Evolito.

The established automotive production experience of YASA’s technology may provide Evolito with a competitive edge within the aerospace market.

Evolito’s Technology and Market Potential

Evolito’s motors are described as “ultra-high-performance, low-weight axial-flux motors.” Their power electronics are claimed to be smaller, lighter, and more durable than existing alternatives.

Potential applications include electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, conventional fixed-wing aircraft, and distributed electric propulsion systems for urban air mobility (UAM).

Gareth Morris, Managing Director of Evolito, stated:

Personal observation of the YASA factory and a detailed explanation of the engine’s “topology” strongly support the claims regarding its capabilities. It is this technology that Evolito is now advancing within the aerospace industry, suggesting a promising future.

Cyrus Jilla, Partner and Board Director at Waypoint Capital, commented:

Alexis Zervoglos, Senior Partner at OSE, added:

Market Forecasts

Industry forecasts predict a market value of $90 billion for electric drive solutions in urban applications by 2050, encompassing 160,000 vehicles.

(However, it’s worth noting the existence of Aviato in this space.)