The Automechanika Innovation Awards 2012 were announced and NTN-SNR were the winners in the Parts category for their in-wheel motor system. An independent 8-person jury of industry experts agreed on the winners, who were selected from the total of 117 applications.

 
The NTN in-wheel motor system uses an electrically powered motor mounted directly at the drive wheels, completely eliminating gearboxes and drivetrain/axles, along with all of the power losses that they cause. Driving performance is improved, because the driving force of the right and left wheels can be independently controlled. The maximum speed of the two seater compact EV demonstration vehicle is 150 km/h.

The in-wheel motor system features a motor mounted directly within the wheel. This allows more effective use of free space and greater design flexibility for vehicles. The In-wheel Motor System for Compact EVs is an EV system product that has been reduced to such a size and weight that the hub bearing, reducer and motor that make up the in-wheel motor have been mounted within the wheel, and includes a control system consisting of an inverter. EVs are ideal for driving short distances, including shopping and commuting, and are easy to get in and out of, which means that are suited to users of advanced age.

Another NTN-SNR demonstration concept vehicle, the Q'mo , is also equipped with the in-wheel motor system. The Q'mo is controlled by a joystick and can move laterally and turn by pivoting. The Q'mo was on display at NTN-SNR's stand at Automechanika in Frankfurt where it could be seen being put through it's paces.