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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2012 and older => Topic started by: zap mc on February 28, 2012, 03:15:05 AM

Title: Zero use " Mars " motors on the new 2012 models
Post by: zap mc on February 28, 2012, 03:15:05 AM
I thought that the look of the new Zero 3 phase brushless motors was familiar and then I discovered that is because they are made by the same company that made the original motors for the Zero X who used to be called Mars and have recently changed their name to Motenergy. It seems Zero have partnered with Motenergy to produce a special motor much like the Zero X ones were. After Zero recieved a sunstantial grant to develop a drivetrain it is interesting to see that they opted to go outside the company for this technology rather than develop it in house.
Title: Re: Zero use " Mars " motors on the new 2012 models
Post by: protomech on February 28, 2012, 03:39:09 AM
The claim is that they have extensively modified this motor's winding and cooling.

I haven't been following Zero's grant process closely, but were they awarded the grant for the motor or for the entire powertrain?
Title: Re: Zero use " Mars " motors on the new 2012 models
Post by: Richard230 on February 28, 2012, 04:38:13 AM
My recollection is that they received a government grant to build their production factory in Scotts Valley a couple of years ago. I had not heard any reports about Zero receiving a government grant to develop their new motor, or any specific parts. Which, of course, doesn't mean that they didn't receive more than one grant.
Title: Re: Zero use " Mars " motors on the new 2012 models
Post by: craigq on February 28, 2012, 07:19:22 AM
Found this re: money for powertrain development http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/news/zero-motorcycles-wins-california-energy-commission-grant/ (http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/news/zero-motorcycles-wins-california-energy-commission-grant/)
Title: Re: Zero use " Mars " motors on the new 2012 models
Post by: zap mc on February 29, 2012, 01:48:32 AM
Interestingly KTM partnered with Perm for their Freeride which may explain why Zero went with different manufacturer.