Present at CES, Hyundai unveiled a prototype Ioniq 5 with an intriguing skill: It is capable of performing a crab walk and spinning thanks to its innovative four swiveling wheels.
The prototype is a result of Hyundai Mobis’ work, a department within Hyundai specializing in components and the advancement of autonomous driving technology. The modified Ioniq 5 is equipped with a feature known as “e-Corner” by the company. Each wheel is fitted with its own electric motor, electronic damper, and brake- and steer-by-wire controls, allowing independent operation for driving, stopping, and turning of each wheel. Moreover, this setup permits the wheel modules to be easily integrated into diverse vehicle body styles without occupying excessive space.
You can witness this technology in action below. It’s truly engaging.
The flexibility of each wheel to swivel and function independently allows the Ioniq 5 to perform impressive driving maneuvers. By turning all wheels 90 degrees, the vehicle can effortlessly crabwalk into or out of tight parallel parking spaces. Furthermore, it can execute a spot spin by swiveling the wheels outward and driving them in opposing directions. It’s even capable of diagonal driving by steering all four wheels in unison or rotating around the front wheels by steering solely at the rear.
This technology significantly enhances the vehicle’s maneuverability, especially in scenarios such as tricky parallel parking. While similar feats have been accomplished with Lego models, experiencing a full-sized car performing these actions is truly remarkable. Other automobile manufacturers have explored the utilization of individual wheel motors for zero-radius turns, like the Rivian R1T and the GMC Hummer EV using rear-wheel steering for crab-walking maneuvers. Nevertheless, the addition of complete 90-degree steering capability to each wheel elevates the car’s functionality to a new level.
Although the technology was initially unveiled several years ago, it was at this year’s CES event that the e-Corner hardware was showcased on the full-sized Ioniq 5 SUV. With the extensive steering range at all four corners, the SUV now possesses maneuverability similar to that of most modern forklifts.
Information regarding the e-Corner modules is currently limited, and it remains uncertain if Hyundai intends to commercialize this technology. Challenges to address would involve enhancing the wheel motor system to match the performance and efficiency of existing electric vehicle drivetrains.
Historically, automobiles have managed well with less maneuverability throughout the past century. This suggests that the e-Corner technology may serve more as a novelty rather than a mainstream offering. Nonetheless, the appeal of effortlessly sliding sideways into a parking spot is undeniable.
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