Comparative Performance Analysis of Radial Flux and Dual Air-Gap Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Brushless DC Motors for Electric Vehicle Application

This paper presents comparative performance analysis between radial flux permanent magnet brushless DC motor and axial flux permanent magnet brushless DC motor for electric vehicle application. Initially motor rating is calculated based on requirements of electric vehicle application and vehicular dynamics. Radial flux motor and axial flux motors are designed for that calculated rating based on sizing equations and assumed design variables. Dual air-gap sandwiched stator type topology is selected for axial flux motor. Important design aspects of radial flux motor and axial flux motor are discussed. Comparative analysis is done for performance parameters like requirement of copper, iron and permanent magnet materials, various losses, efficiency, weight and cogging torque. Based on comparative analysis it is concluded that axial flux motor is the most compatible motor for electric vehicle application.