By Lee Min-hyung, The Korea Times - Hyundai Motor has unveiled its universal wheel drive system by placing major driving parts inside a wheel, dramatically increasing the potential indoor space for electric vehicles (EV), the company said Tuesday.

The so-called "UNI WHEEL" is in its initial development phase, but the carmaker believes it will become a game changer for future mobility here and abroad. The company applied for eight patents for the new wheel system in Korea and other key markets in the United States and Europe.

Under the system, key driving components, such as constant velocity joints and drive shafts, are placed inside the wheel, maximizing potential interior space for passengers or extra batteries. If the expanded space is used to carry an additional battery, vehicles equipped with the UNI WHEEL system will be capable of driving for longer without charging, according to Hyundai.

“We are pleased to unveil innovative ideas that can serve as a game changer in the future mobility market,” Park Jong-sool, a senior researcher at Hyundai Motor, told reporters during a tech conference. “Hyundai Motor and Kia will do their best to enhance their technological skills, so customers enjoy new and fresh mobility experiences.”

But the carmaker did not confirm when exactly it will be commercialized.

“We have just completed the second developmental phase, so it appears too early for us to discuss the timeline for its commercialization,” Park said. “Two separate motors are used to realize the UNI WHEEL system, so the price of vehicles with it will be higher than conventional ones with one motor. We forecast the system will be applied to luxury or high-end vehicles first because of the price.”

Most EV batteries have so far been placed at the bottom of vehicles, and in most cases, indoor space is reduced in line with battery volume. But EVs equipped with UNI WHEEL will help maximize space efficiency for carmakers, according to Hyundai.

The system can also be used for other types of mobility, such as wheelchairs, bicycles and delivery robots, as the size of the wheel is adjustable, ranging from 4 inches to more than 25 inches, the company said.

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