The motor design and selection for three-wheelers (e.g., electric trikes, cargo trikes, mobility scooters) significantly impact vehicle performance, range, load capacity, and lifespan. This guide covers motor types, power selection, control methods, and installation approaches to help users make informed choices.
Common motor types for three-wheelers include:
Features:
Simple structure, low cost, easy control.
High starting torque, suitable for heavy loads.
Requires periodic brush replacement (higher maintenance).
Lower efficiency (~70-80%), affecting range.
Applications:
Low-cost electric trikes (short-distance transport, light cargo).
Applications where speed control is not critical but load capacity is important.
Features:
No brush wear, long lifespan, maintenance-free.
High efficiency (85-95%), better range.
Excellent speed control, supports electronic commutation.
Higher cost, requires a compatible controller (e.g., FOC vector control).
Applications:
Mid-to-high-end electric trikes (e.g., delivery trikes, passenger trikes).
Applications requiring efficiency, durability, and low noise.
Features:
Simple and robust, low maintenance.
Requires a variable-frequency drive (VFD) for speed control.
Lower starting torque; may need gear ratio optimization.
Applications:
High-power trikes (heavy cargo transport).
Commercial trikes requiring long operating hours.
Features:
Highest efficiency (90-96%), energy-saving.
Compact, lightweight, high power density.
Complex control, higher cost.
Applications:
Premium electric trikes (e.g., electric logistics vehicles).
Applications demanding high range and performance.
Motor power should be determined based on load capacity, climbing ability, and top speed:
|
Vehicle Type |
Load Capacity |
Recommended Power |
Suitable Motor |
|
Light-duty trike |
100-200 kg |
500W-800W |
Brushed/BLDC |
|
Standard cargo trike |
300-500 kg |
800W-1200W |
BLDC/Induction |
|
Heavy-duty cargo trike |
500-1000 kg |
1500W-3000W |
Induction/PMSM |
|
High-speed passenger trike |
200-400 kg |
1000W-2000W |
BLDC/PMSM |
Power Estimation Formula:
P=(M⋅g⋅v⋅sinθ+½ρCdAv³+μMgv)/η
Where:
P: Motor power (W)
M: Total vehicle mass (kg)
v: Target speed (m/s)
θ: Maximum climb angle (°)
μ: Rolling resistance coefficient (0.01-0.03)
η: Drivetrain efficiency (0.7-0.9)
Example Calculation:
A 500 kg cargo trike targeting 30 km/h (8.33 m/s) with a 10° climb requires:
P≈(800⋅9.8⋅8.33⋅0.17+0.02⋅800⋅9.8⋅8.33)/0.8≈1500W
Thus, a 1500W BLDC motor is suitable.
Pros: Compact, high efficiency, no chain/gearbox needed.
Cons: Increased unsprung mass, affects suspension.
Best for: Lightweight trikes, mobility scooters.
Pros: Low center of gravity, high torque, ideal for climbing.
Cons: Requires a drivetrain (chain/belt).
Best for: Cargo trikes, off-road trikes.
Pros: Maintenance-free, long lifespan.
Cons: Bulky, higher cost.
Best for: Commercial trikes, heavy-load applications. Such as TM300 Transaxle Motor
PWM Control (Brushed DC): Simple and cheap but less efficient.
FOC Vector Control (BLDC): High efficiency, smooth speed control.
VFD Control (AC Induction): Suitable for high-power trikes.
Voltage: 48V (light), 60V (medium), 72V (heavy-duty).
Capacity: 20Ah (short-range), 30-50Ah (cargo).
Range Estimation:
Range(km)=Battery Voltage×Capacity×Efficiency/Motor Power×Speed
Example: 60V 30Ah battery + 1000W motor (90% efficiency) at 30 km/h:
Range≈ 60×30×0.9/1000 ×30≈48km
|
Vehicle Type |
Recommended Motor |
Power |
Control |
Battery |
|
Light-duty trike |
BLDC Hub Motor |
500W-800W |
FOC |
48V 20Ah |
|
Cargo trike |
Mid-Drive BLDC |
1200W-2000W |
FOC |
60V 40Ah |
|
High-speed trike |
PMSM |
1500W-3000W |
VFD |
72V 50Ah |
Light trikes: 500W-800W BLDC hub motor (48V).
Cargo trikes: 1000W-1500W mid-drive BLDC (60V).
Heavy-duty trikes: 2000W+ PMSM/induction (72V).
Key factors: Load capacity, climbing ability, range, cost.
Choosing the right motor improves performance, efficiency, and reliability. Match motor type, power, and control system to your specific needs.
