That sounds as if Musk could soon make an offer to take over the company. Then probably also an out-of-court settlement worth some millions so that he can call himself co-founder as usual. Finally, he could speed off into the sunset on a goddamn cyberbike - hopefully never to be seen again.
I don't think the article addressed it directly, but it seems like it's improved due to being lighter weight with more torque and offset by not needing axles or gearing since it can be mounted in the wheel. It says they weigh 40kg, which isn't too bad compared to axles and gearboxes in my experience with ICE vehicles.
I'm curious how this holds up to things like potholes and minor fender benders if it's integrated in the wheel. Imagine hitting a huge pothole or a curb and not only having to replace a wheel, control arms, hub, ball joints, etc but also an entire electric motor.
Are gearboxes typically unsprung? I was under the impression that the flex from the CV joints sorta disconnects the weight of the drivetrain from the wheels and it's instead connected more rigidly to the body, which is sprung.
These may be a net reduction in mass, but likely still an increase in unsprung mass
They're missing a category for ebikes. Larger and lighter than their scooter motor, but doesn't need to hit 15kw. 3-5kw is plenty. Drone motor doesn't have enough torque for ebikes.
The main reason these motors are so powerful is entirely about high surface area allowing for cooling. For ebikes could have fat tire format but with added fairly thin mag wheel spokes, that allow for high range gear cassettes, or just placing into traditional frame designs.