Dual-Powertrain EV Drive Layout With Integrated Motor-Generator

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing extended-range hybrid electric vehicles require a separate generator, which occupies vehicle space, increases costs, and reduces available space for passengers due to the need for additional components.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid electric vehicle drive system with two powertrains, each connected to a transmission system, allowing the generator to function as both a motor and a generator, reducing the need for a separate generator and optimizing space usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a separate generator is configured in the extended-range hybrid electric vehicle, then the vehicle can generate electricity to power the battery, but the generator occupies vehicle space and increases costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectricity generation capabilityVSAvoidvehicle space
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The original drive motor is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a motor to drive the wheels during electric driving mode, and as a generator to generate electricity during regenerative braking and engine-assisted modes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate generator, saving vehicle space while maintaining electricity generation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the generator function into the existing drive motor, combining two previously separate components (motor and generator) into a single unified component. This integration reduces the total number of components, decreases vehicle space occupation, and lowers system complexity while achieving both propulsion and electricity generation functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a separate generator is configured in the extended-range hybrid electric vehicle, then the vehicle can implement hybrid driving mode, but the generator increases vehicle costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehybrid driving capabilityVSAvoidvehicle cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The drive motor is designed with multi-functionality to serve as both motor and generator, eliminating the need for a separate generator component. This reduces the bill of materials, decreases manufacturing complexity, and lowers overall vehicle costs while maintaining full hybrid driving capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By merging the generator function into the existing drive motor, the patent reduces the total component count and simplifies the powertrain architecture. This integration lowers manufacturing costs through reduced assembly complexity, fewer parts, and simplified supply chain requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the generator is used to drive the wheels directly, then the vehicle can operate in electric motor mode, but the system requires complex control to switch between generator and motor functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric driving modeVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system automatically determines the optimal operating mode (motor or generator) based on real-time vehicle conditions such as battery state of charge, driving demand, and motor speed. The system self-regulates the generator's operating point to maintain optimal efficiency across different工况, reducing the need for complex manual intervention or overly complicated control logic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system reduces the number of components, saves space, and lowers costs while improving drive efficiency and enabling four-wheel drive modes.

Implementation Method 1

the engine is configured to drive the generator to generate electric energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The battery system is connected to the generator and the second powertrain, and is configured to receive the electric energy output by the generator, and output stored electric energy to the second powertrain and/or the generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical energy storage: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentEP4364989B1Electric vehicle drive system and electric vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.10.01 HUAWEI DIGITAL POWER TECH CO LTD
  • EP4364989B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4364989B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4364989B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An electric vehicle drive system and an electric vehicle are provided to reduce driving costs of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle drive system includes a first powertrain, a second powertrain, a first transmission system, a second transmission system, and a battery system. The first powertrain is connected to the first transmission system. The second powertrain is connected to the second transmission system. The first powertrain includes a generator and an engine, and the engine drives the generator to generate electric energy, or drives first-side wheels by using the first transmission system. The generator drives the first-side wheels by using the first transmission system, or outputs the generated electric energy to the battery system. The second powertrain drives second-side wheels by using the second transmission system. The battery system is connected to the generator and the second powertrain, and is configured to receive the electric energy output by the generator, and output stored electric energy to the second powertrain and/or the generator.