CES 2022: Indigo Flow wheeled out

An American company has launched its take on a people-mover and delivery van that it claims overcome issues with in-wheel electric hub motors.

Indigo Technologies says it has developed a ‘robotic wheel’ that integrates a small electric motor and electric adaptive suspension into one unit, providing a better ride and handling and more cabin space for people and luggage than orthodox EVs.

The car-maker also claims the 2022 Indigo Flow passenger van and Indigo Flow Plus delivery van will provide more than 400km of range from a 40kWh battery pack, reflecting a low kerb weight and slick aero (both unspecified).

Very little information and a handful of renderings of the Flow and Flow Plus have been issued by Indigo to coincide with the opening of the CES tech extravaganza in Las Vegas.

The renderings show both vehicles feature a central driver’s seat, sliding side doors and digital side mirrors.

The Flow has rear side windows and a panoramic glass sunroof. Both are aimed at gig economy drivers.

Previously, Indigo has said its first vehicles would launch in late 2022. The business has been around since 2010 developing EV tech but only started commercialising its developments in 2020.

It announced manufacturing plans and funding for the robotic wheel in May 2021.

In-wheel electric hub motors have been around almost as long as EVs, but have not been successfully pressed into production service.

The closest so far has been the Lordstown Endurance ute, which is now tipped to enter production around mid-2022 after a series of delays and setbacks.

In-wheel hub motors are simple, eschewing the need for reduction gears and differentials because they are direct drive, energy-efficient and save space.

But they can also be expensive compared to chassis-mounted e-motors because it takes four to have 4x4 capability, versus only two if the motors are chassis-mounted.

They also cop a lot of abuse hanging out in the wheel, are heavy, add to unsprung weight and take up space in the wheel where the friction brakes normally sit.

Their weight also usually means a stiffer suspension set-up that impacts on passenger ride comfort.

But Indigo claims to have overcome much of the challenge by integrating drive and propulsion.

Each e-motor produces a maximum 22kW and 250Nm, while the suspension exploits digital electromagnetics to adjust to road conditions and cargo and passenger loads.

“Indigo invented robotic wheels that uniquely enable more space and comfort for small urban EVs,” said Will Graylin, CEO of Indigo.

“Without the transmission and motor between the wheels, Indigo Flow has a low, flat floor that provides more cargo space than any vehicle of its size. And the active suspension in each wheel makes for an amazing ride comfort at an affordable price that people will love.”

Unfortunately, Graylin did not specify what that price might end up being.