Protean Electric says its next-generation in-wheel motor (IWM) will reach price parity with twin e-axle set-ups and lower overall vehicle costs, with series production slated for 2026.
The British company will unveil the unit at IAA Mobility (Sept 9–12), positioning it as a drop-in alternative for mainstream EV programmes.
A European carmaker has nominated Protean’s new Pm18 2500 for a performance EV due to start production in 2026.
The motor delivers more than 2,500Nm and 220kW/295hp per wheel, enabling claimed 0–100kph times of about three seconds depending on vehicle specification.
Protean said this is the first time an IWM has displaced a dual e-axle solution on cost and capability.
The company argued IWMs simplify manufacturing by removing traditional driveline components, trimming parts count and assembly steps.
For legacy platforms, this enables EV integration with fewer structural changes; for clean-sheet designs, it frees cabin and cargo space while improving efficiency and agility via precise wheel-by-wheel control.
“Our industry demands ‘better’ to also mean ‘cheaper’,” said Andrew Whitehead, Protean Electric chief executive, adding that ProteanDrive could undercut common twin e-axle systems while increasing customer value.
Protean holds more than 330 patents across 75 families and operates in the UK, China and Turkiye.
It is part of BEDEO Group, which develops electrified transport technologies for European fleets as they transition to zero-emission mobility.
