This fifth-generation BMW motor has no magnets. It operates as a three-phase AC synchronous motor using brushes and a commutator to provide power to the rotor windings, meaning that AC brushed motors aren't just for third-world electric locomotives any more.
We asked BMW about the life expectancy of those brushes and commutators, and what happens to the dust as they wear. While they couldn't give us a lifetime estimate for the brushes, they did reassure us that the brush modules are "in an enclosed and sealed compartment, eliminating dust contamination inside the stator/rotor wiring." Anyone who has worked with brakes or even brushed DC motors knows just how fine those dust particles are. It will be interesting to see both how long they last and just how much dust those modules will actually contain (or release).
We've hinted at the impressive power output of the BMW iX M60 motor in our First Look, but its fifth-generation electric motor technology deserves its own examination. That's because it's both extremely high-tech and a little bit old-school. Here's what you need to know, and why it's so interesting that BMW used this motor on the iX M60. It's a big advance in terms of the efficiency of the electric motor, while getting away from the use of rare earth minerals.
Before we dive in any further, if you're not familiar with the different types of EV motors used in vehicles, we have a thorough E-Motor 101 course.
Read more here
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