Keio University created SIM-Drive Corp. as a separate entity to develop electric vehicle (EV) technology. SIM-Drive Corp. representatives have already stated that they won’t produce vehicles but license technology and provide research to automakers. To this end, SIM-Drive Corp. recently announced a partnership with 34 public and private partners to develop a new EV prototype. In addition to local and state governments, SIM-Drive Corp. will work with Mitsubishi and Isuzu on an innovative EV design.
Researchers at Keio University and SIM-Drive Corp. will use in-wheel motors and a sleek layout for its drive system to increase vehicle mileage. SIM-Drive Corp. has developed the Shimizu In-Wheel Motor Drive (SIM-Drive) to generate power for continuous EV operation. The “hollow floor” design developed by this Japanese firm keeps the battery and drive components low. Thanks to under-floor storage of EV components, this electric car prototype will feature a low profile that reduces drag.
SIM-Drive Corp. and its partners have set several benchmarks to turn this EV prototype into a production vehicle. In order to make the EV viable on the global market, SIM-Drive Corp. wants the prototype to reach a minimum range of 186 miles. SIM-Drive Corp. wants to have the prototype complete by 2011 for a round of appearances at global auto shows. The ultimate goal for SIM-Drive Corp. and its partners is an initial release in Japan by 2013 with a global release thereafter.
The goals set by SIM-Drive Corp. for a prototype that is in its infancy may seem extraordinary to industry insiders. SIM-Drive Corp. and its collaborators should succeed in commercialization by 2013 thanks to technical expertise, EV platform versatility and available capital. This subsidiary of Keio University draws assistance not only from the Faculty of Science and Technology but from researchers employed by its partners. SIM-Drive Corp. has touted the versatility of its EV drive system design as a reason why its prototype should be successful. This design can be developed for two, four and eight-wheel drive vehicles to accommodate passenger and commercial vehicles. SIM-Drive Corp. may have limited capital in its coffers at present but it will be able to access funds from partners, Keio University as well as grants from the federal government during prototype development.
