FRIWO has developed a motor control unit and software specifically for two- and three-wheel vehicles in Asia, writes Nick Flaherty.

The MC1.5-55A-48V unit has a continuous power output of 1.5 kW for light EVs using permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), making it ideal for electric scooters, motorcycles and other vehicles, particularly in India, Vietnam and Indonesia, and generally in Southeast Asia.

The unit takes a supply voltage of 30-72 V, making it flexible for a wide range of battery pack designs, and it produces a motor current of 100 A RMS. This is capable of handling demanding tasks such as hill starts.

Two analogue inputs allow the integration of sensors such as accelerator handles or brakes, and the software allows control and configuration of nine digital inputs.

Communication is via the CAN protocol for integration with existing systems and networks.

The unit is sealed to the IP65 rating for the harsh environments regarding temperature and humidity that e-scooters and light three-wheel vans encounter in Southeast Asia.

The flexible, specially developed firmware of the MC1.5-55A-48V can be configured by the FRIWO Enable Tool.

This measurement and calibration software sets the parameters of the motor and battery management system, enabling developers to update the firmware of the control unit. It also allows the parameter memory to be read out quickly to speed up integration and commissioning.

The Enable Tool can adjust a wide range of parameters per control unit, allowing the subjective driving experience to be tailored to the customer’s requirements.

The software also creates securely signed data sets for production and after-sales applications. This provides security and integrity by managing different user roles, such as developer, production and service, enabling efficient control of vehicle projects, even in larger organisations with a network of partners.