An Oxfordshire-based company is at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) innovation, developing advanced components that are set to revolutionise the automotive industry.
YASA: From University Spin-Out to Industry Leader
Founded in 2009 as a spin-out from the University of Oxford, YASA has become a key player in the EV sector. The company specialises in axial flux electric motors, which are renowned for their high performance and efficiency. These motors are currently utilised in high-end sports cars, including models from Ferrari and Lamborghini.
Innovative Axial Flux Technology
YASA’s axial flux motors offer significant advantages over traditional radial flux motors, including being approximately one-third the size and weight. This compact design allows for greater efficiency and performance, making them ideal for the next generation of electric vehicles.
The company’s founder and Chief Technology Officer, Tim Woolmer, explained that by arranging magnetic components into “pole-pieces,” YASA has simplified the manufacturing process, making the production of these advanced motors commercially viable.
Expansion and Future Applications
In 2021, YASA was acquired by the Mercedes-Benz Group, a move that has facilitated further growth and development. The company recently opened a new £12 million factory in Yarnton, Oxfordshire, which will enable the production of over 25,000 units annually.
Commercial Director Andy North highlighted that while YASA’s technology is currently used in niche sports cars, the lessons learned are expected to influence the broader automotive market. “Over time, we will see that filter through to Mercedes-AMG vehicles, and then into the automotive sector more broadly,” he stated.
Industry Impact and Expert Opinions
Andy Palmer, former Chief Operating Officer at Toyota and often referred to as the “Godfather of EVs,” noted that the trickle-down effect of high-performance technology to mainstream vehicles has always been a hallmark of the automotive industry. He believes that YASA’s innovations will eventually become standard in everyday cars, enhancing efficiency and performance across the board.
By Maria Heffernan