Transense SAWsense Technology Chosen for £11 Million UK EV R&D Initiative
Transense will integrate its SAWsense technology into Protean’s in-wheel motor assemblies, enhancing performance and control
Transense Technologies plc, an innovator in sensor technology and measurement systems, has been selected as a key partner in an ambitious £11 million research and development project aimed at advancing electric vehicle (EV) technology.
Part-funded by the UK Government through the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), this initiative underscores the UK’s commitment to electrification and sustainable automotive solutions.
The project, led by automotive technology firm Protean Electric, a global leader in in-wheel motor systems, brings together a consortium of UK-based partners including Unipart, Viritech, and Hypromag.
Together, they will deliver the Power-electronics Upscale for Localisation and Sustainable Electrification (PULSE) programme. PULSE aims to accelerate the development of advanced power-electronics products and manufacturing capabilities within the UK EV market.
Transense will integrate its innovative SAWsense technology into Protean’s in-wheel motor assemblies, enhancing performance and control. Specifically, the technology will be embedded within Protean’s 800V Twinverter system, improving the efficiency and functionality of the next generation of in-wheel motors.
The 30-month PULSE project builds on Protean’s Gen5 in-wheel motor technology, with the goal of developing an 800V Silicon Carbide (SiC) Twinverter and in-wheel motor suitable for both lightweight and heavy-duty electric vehicles.
In addition, the project will work on the creation of a fully integrated drive unit, responding to the growing demand for high-performance EV systems in the UK and beyond.
As part of its role in the project, Transense will also focus on developing its supply chain and manufacturing capabilities to meet the quality and production demands of the automotive market. This investment positions the company to support Protean’s market launch and future expansion.
Ryan Maughan, Managing Director of Transense Technologies plc, commented: “We are thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking EV drive system project, propelling the UK’s automotive industry toward sustainable electrification. Winning such a competitive bid is a testament to the confidence in our SAWsense technology and our team’s expertise. This project underpins our near-term revenue forecasts and presents long-term opportunities for production revenue.”
Stephen Lambert, CTO of Protean Electric, added: Project PULSE brings together a world-class consortium to develop in-wheel motor power electronics and the manufacturing solutions needed to produce in volume. We are delighted to be working with Transense to deliver motor-integrated torque sensing technology, having seen the potential in initial feasibility and technical studies that have already been completed.”
