GM EV Motors: Hummer & Future Electric Vehicles

General Motors' Ultium Drive Motor Details Revealed

Recently, General Motors has focused heavily on promoting the features of its forthcoming Ultium battery technology. However, details regarding the motors that will utilize these cells have been comparatively scarce.

This changed on Tuesday with the unveiling of the new Ultium Drive motors. The series now encompasses three distinct models.

Ultium Drive Motor Lineup

• A 180 kW motor designed for front-wheel drive applications.
• A 255 kW variant suitable for both rear- and front-wheel drive.
• A 62 kW motor intended as an all-wheel drive assist.

The initial two models are permanent magnet motors. GM engineered these with a specific goal: to lessen the company’s reliance on substantial quantities of heavy rare earth metals.

While precise figures for torque and power density weren't disclosed, GM asserts that these motors will provide “excellent” performance in both areas.

Hummer EV Performance

The 2022 Hummer EV is confirmed to incorporate three of the 255 kW motors.

According to GM, this configuration will allow the vehicle to generate a combined 11,500 ft/lb of torque.

Acceleration from a standstill to 60 mph is projected to occur in approximately three seconds.

Scalability and Manufacturing

GM’s engineering team prioritized scalability during the motor design process. The motors can be produced utilizing consistent tooling and manufacturing processes.

Furthermore, the company successfully integrated components, such as the power inverter, directly into the motors. This integration is expected to lower production costs and streamline manufacturing procedures.

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared on Engadget.