More on the smart electric plustwo

In the cabin, a battery state of charge gauge replaces the tachometer and the gear selector has been modified to provide Drive, Neutral and Reverse. An electric element now heats the cabin air, replacing the engine hot water system.

Zytek paid particular attention to achieving a very smooth drive. “Although electric motors are capable of delivering seamless torque throughout the rev range, the way that the energy is supplied changes depending on the demand on the motor and its operating speed. In many EV applications, this creates harshness at the transition points,” explains Heslington. “Zytek’s advanced control systems allowed us to analyse these transitions and develop control strategies that make them almost imperceptible to the driver.”

Zytek has more than ten years experience designing, developing and integrating electric and hybrid drivetrains and has worked with smart on a range of projects since 1998.

The Zytek integrated drivetrain fitted to the smart ev is the first to enter production from a range that will eventually provide vehicle manufacturers with power options from 30kW up to 100kW. “We believe these are the most highly integrated EV modules available, offering direct engine replacement and considerably simplifying the engineering required to deliver safety, performance and refinement equivalent or superior to the standard vehicle,” concludes Steve Tremble. smart ev data Weight of Zytek integrated drivetrain 105kg

Max power at 278V 30kW (standard car 37kW or 45kW)

Max torque 120Nm (standard car 80Nm or 95Nm)

Operating ambient temperature -20C to +40C

Vehicle weight 1,120kg (standard petrol car 990kg)

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