Zeroshift, a UK based transmission company has made a significant breakthrough that could change the way we drive electric vehicles. They have developed a clutchless multi speed gearbox that uses dampers inside the gear hubs along with the electronic control of the motor for changing gears. This is a seamless operation.

There is no interruption whatsoever in torque allowing the motor to run at a higher efficiency, which in turn extends the range and battery life by as much as 10%. The electronic control of the electric motor is used to match shaft speeds and an integrated passive damper system within the drive hub that can isolate vibrations. With sealed pockets of silicone fluid and mechanical compression springs, the shifts are virtually unnoticeable to occupants.

Now the concept is being developed using Zeroshift’s proprietary gear-shifting system. This could allow electric vehicle motors to be downsized and keep them running for longer at medium loads and speeds with peak efficiency of 95%.

It is also believed that the improved efficiency could extend battery life. Improving the motor efficiency uses less of the energy stored for a journey, which eases the discharge-recharge cycles and cuts recharge time. This means that the cars can go on running for a longer duration.

Source – Green Car Website