TW4XP - Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE

This innovative side- by-side two seat city car eschews a steering wheel for outstanding visibility and ease of entry/exit instead by using two control sticks and buttons to control the speed and direction of the car. A lightweight aluminum chassis and all-electric drive using high torque motor operating a wheel speed (no transmission or gear reduction needed) with integral differential weighed in at just 1545 pounds. This car uses an 800V lithium-ion manganese battery pack and an inverter adapted from a wind turbine power generator. This unusually high vehicle voltage level reduces electrical losses and increases overall vehicle efficiency while using standard electric components. Employing a technique just now being considered by OEMs, this team charges their batteries through their motor and controller.