The evolution of electric vehicles has been marked by continuous innovation, allowing manufacturers to build multiple products on a single platform. The journey from the S1 Pro to the S1 Air, S1X, and now the introduction of Gen 3 highlights this progress. As the industry moves forward, the second generation (Gen 2) technology played a crucial role in accelerating growth, reducing costs, and improving features and performance. Now, with the introduction of Gen 3, the future of electric vehicles looks even more promising.
Innovations with Gen 3 Platform
The Gen 2 platform saw significant advancements, including a 26% performance boost and a 22.5% reduction in costs. This success set the stage for further innovation, leading to the development of the Gen 3 platform—a design that is simple, scalable, efficient, and state-of-the-art.
One of the most groundbreaking features of the Gen 3 platform is the integration of the motor, battery, and electronics into a single unit. This design incorporates an aluminum-cast front and rear frame subassembly, integrated directly into the battery box, creating a structural battery pack. This innovation not only transforms the battery from a mere energy source to a key structural component but also enhances the vehicle’s overall integrity and strength. The scalability of this platform allows for the addition of various form factors, catering to different customer needs, from commuter vehicles to sports and touring models.
Inside the Gen 3 Battery
The Gen 3 battery showcases indigenous 4680 cells, which are preassembled at the Giga Factory. These cells, placed in the bottom cell pallet, are connected through in-molded bus bars insulated with plastic sheets and laser-welded to the cells. This process reduces manufacturing time while improving shock resistance, strength, and thermal efficiency. The 4680 cells offer a 10% increase in energy density compared to the previous 2170 cells, providing enhanced performance.
Next-Generation Motor and Electronics
The Gen 3 platform introduces a new magnetless motor, integrated with magnetized electrical coils instead of permanent magnets. This design generates higher torque more efficiently, using materials sourced entirely from within India, making the platform more sustainable. Additionally, the number of Electronic Control Units (ECUs) has been streamlined from ten in Gen 1 to four in Gen 2, and now, with Gen 3, the core functionalities of the Battery Management System (BMS), Motor Control Unit (MCU), and other components are integrated into a single high-performance multi-core processor. This architecture minimizes wiring complexity, enhancing overall reliability and enabling wireless data communication.
The advanced electronics in the Gen 3 platform support wireless data communication through a new and improved central compute board. This board houses all the main ECUs on one platform and has the capability to integrate future advancements, such as Ola’s custom chip. The central compute board will be the most powerful electronic system in any two-wheeler, allowing for easy manufacturing and assembly while enhancing current functionality and preparing for future technologies like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
The Impact of Gen 3 on Performance and Cost
The Gen 3 platform represents a significant generational advancement in terms of key metrics. Power output has increased by 76% from Gen 1 to Gen 3, with peak power reaching 15 kW. Torque, a critical factor in two-wheelers, has also been enhanced. Additionally, the weight of the vehicles has been reduced from 123 kg in Gen 1 to around 105-106 kg in Gen 3, reflecting improved performance and functionality.
Energy efficiency has also seen significant improvements, reducing energy losses and extending the range of the vehicles. The reduction in the number of electronic boards from four in Gen 2 to one in Gen 3 has contributed to a 40% reduction in costs, making the Gen 3 platform more affordable without compromising on functionality.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Electric Vehicles
The Gen 3 platform lays the foundation for a new generation of electric vehicles, with a roadmap that includes the S1 series, such as the S1 Pro, S1 Air, S1X, and future models like the sports-focused S1 and the powerful S2. Additionally, a touring scooter, as teased in the silhouette, will also be built on this platform. This roadmap promises a diverse range of products, all benefiting from the advanced technology and innovations of the Gen 3 platform.
With these advancements, the future of electric vehicles looks bright, offering better performance, enhanced functionality, and greater affordability. The Gen 3 platform is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle market, driving the industry forward with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.