EXRO’s Coil Driver™ technology is central to several key partnerships and product integrations. These collaborations have significant implications for the technology’s long-term success. Below is an overview of how EXRO, HB4, SM4E, and Casalini are interconnected and what it means for EXRO’s future.
EXRO’s Coil Driver™ Technology
- EXRO specializes in advanced power electronics for electric vehicles (EVs).
- The patented Coil Driver™ controls an electric motor at the individual coil level, allowing real-time switching of motor profiles to expand the operating range and boost powertrain performance.
- It enhances torque and power output, improves efficiency, reduces system costs, and supports AC fast charging, though this feature is currently limited to higher-voltage models.
HB4 Group Partnership
- HB4 is an Italian Tier-1 OEM supplier of electric vehicle components, including motors.
- Since at least November 2021, EXRO and HB4 have been in collaboration. Initially under an NDA, the agreement was lifted in 2023 after successful validation of the Coil Driver™ in a small passenger car.
- EXRO and HB4 signed their first technology licensing agreement, allowing HB4 to use EXRO’s technology in the European market.
- HB4 initially placed an order for 500 Coil Driver™ units but later transitioned to a hybrid-licensing model.
- The companies plan to co-market their products across Europe and North America.
SM4E Motors
- SM4E, part of the HB4 Group, specializes in designing and manufacturing electric motors.
- They develop motors for various applications, including electric powertrains.
- Some SM4E motors are specifically designed for seamless integration with EXRO inverters.
Casalini Integration
- Casalini, an Italian manufacturer of light vehicles, is utilizing EXRO’s powertrain solution featuring the Coil Driver™ and an SM4E motor.
- On-road testing with Casalini vehicles demonstrated a 20% range increase compared to previous powertrains.
- The first application of EXRO’s intellectual property license with HB4 is being deployed in Casalini vehicles.
- While EXRO and HB4 has only identified the Casalini eKerry by name, Casalini also has multiple minicar models that may be integrating the Coil Driver™ Technology. EXRO’s usage of the phrase ‘a small passenger car’ in the January 17, 2023 Shareholder letter may be further indication of this.
We have been working with HB4 under NDA for more than two years and recently completed successful integration and validation of our low-voltage Coil Driver™, partnered with an HB4 electric motor, in our first passenger vehicle pilot application – a small passenger car with an italian EV OEM
Long-Term Impact for EXRO
- Revenue Growth: The HB4 licensing agreement paves the way for revenue generation through intellectual property licensing.
- Market Expansion: Partnerships with HB4 and Casalini enhance EXRO’s presence in Europe.
- Technology Validation: Successful integration into Casalini vehicles validates EXRO’s technology in real-world conditions.
- Scalability: HB4’s involvement opens opportunities for licensing with larger passenger vehicle manufacturers.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with Tier-1 suppliers like HB4 solidify EXRO’s market position.
- Technological Advancements: The Coil Driver™ demonstrates its potential for delivering efficient EV solutions.
- Future Licensing Opportunities: The HB4 agreement could serve as a model for future deals in the high-volume passenger vehicle market.
Key Takeaways
The relationship between EXRO, HB4, SM4E, and Casalini underscores the real-world application and commercialization of EXRO’s Coil Driver™ technology. The HB4 licensing agreement marks a major milestone for revenue growth and sustainability. The successful integration of EXRO’s technology in Casalini vehicles further proves its viability.
Stay updated on EXRO’s latest developments by visiting our pages on HB4 and Casalini.
