The mechanical performance of electric vehicle (EV) wheel hubs encompasses strength, stiffness, and fatigue characteristics-metrics that directly determine the vehicle's safety and reliability under complex operating conditions. Given the high curb weight and substantial drive torque output characteristic of EVs, wheel hubs must withstand significant radial, axial, and impact loads during operation; consequently, the requirements for material and structural mechanical properties are rigorous.
EV wheel hubs require sufficient tensile and yield strength to prevent plastic deformation or structural failure under extreme conditions. Overall load-bearing capacity is typically enhanced through the selection of high-strength aluminum alloys or reinforced steels, combined with optimized structural design. Furthermore, optimizing the spoke structure and stress distribution effectively mitigates localized stress concentrations, thereby increasing the structural safety margin.
Stiffness is another critical performance indicator for EV wheel hubs. High radial and axial stiffness help maintain stable tire-to-road contact, thereby improving vehicle handling responsiveness and driving stability. Insufficient hub stiffness can lead to deformation during high-speed driving or cornering, which in turn compromises overall vehicle handling and accelerates tire wear.
