Spotlight on Electric Vehicles in powersports

Electric vehicles are pushing the limits of innovation, even in motorsports. 

The revolution is being driven by the need for a better world and the need to achieve new levels of performance, durability and comfort. Electric vehicles (EVs) in motorsports not only have to match the performance of their ICE counterparts, they have to incorporate innovative solutions to meet the challenges that their technology creates. 

In solving these challenges, rubber is an essential material in the design of EVs, providing a wide range of solutions to improve overall performance.

Vibration protection

Batteries in electric vehicles, particularly in a motorsport vehicle, experience extreme conditions. By withstanding temperature changes and providing a barrier against mechanical impact, rubber helps to minimize the risk of failure. Rubber components used for vibration protection extend the life of the battery, for more reliable performance even in difficult environments.

Waterproofing and resistance to the elements

Motorsports frequently expose vehicles to extreme environmental conditions: mud, snow, rain, extreme heat, rough terrain and more. By keeping electrical components sealed against water ingress, dust and other contaminants, rubber seals contribute to protecting the electrical systems. Leak-tightness is crucial to prevent component failure and ensure the vehicle operates reliably.

Motorsports frequently expose vehicles to extreme environmental conditions: mud, snow, rain, extreme heat, rough terrain and more. By keeping electrical components sealed against water ingress, dust and other contaminants, rubber seals contribute to protecting the electrical systems. Leak-tightness is crucial to prevent component failure and ensure the vehicle operates reliably.

Suspension system optimization

The comfort and handling of a motorsports EV strongly depends on the suspension. Rubber is used in the shock absorbers to absorb impact and reduce vibration. By putting rubber in the shock absorbers, designers (OEMs) can greatly improve driving comfort without compromising handling and stability, even on rough terrain.

Improving grip

Tires are another area where rubber plays a crucial role. In electric vehicles, rubber is used to manufacture high performance tires, which are essential for optimum road-holding. Special rubber components are used so that the tires maintain a high level of grip. Optimum grip guarantees smooth acceleration and accurate control, even under extreme conditions.

Acoustic Insulation

The electric motor and transmission in an EV generate different types of noise and vibration. Rubber reduces undesirable noise, giving the driver a more pleasant driving experience. The use of rubber in components such as acoustic panels and electric motor mounts improves driver and passenger comfort and increases the perceived quality of the vehicle.

Vibration Control

Rubber is also used to control vibration in electric motors. Rubber electric motor mountings are designed to absorb vibration, reducing the effect of vibration on the driver and on vehicle components. Effective vibration control leads to a more pleasant and comfortable drive while protecting the vehicle’s internal components against damage.

Improving Harshness

Rubber doesn’t just absorb shock and vibration. It also plays a part in improving the rigidity of vehicle structures. By incorporating rubber into structural components, engineers can improve rigidity while providing flexibility that is essential for the performance of the vehicle. This combination of rigid and flexible behaviour improves durability and increases the protection of internal components.