Electric vehicles (EVs) are, on average, a third heavier than conventional cars. This is because of the large battery units and their metal encasement. Range anxiety is one of the public’s main concerns with EVs, but actually most call-outs to EV breakdowns are for issues associated with the suspension and wheels. The extra battery system mass, and the requirement of the drive train to transmit higher torque and power, severely tests the strength and durability of these components.
These issues need to be resolved for EV adoption to be more widespread. The suspension risks that need to be addressed are primarily failure due to permanent distortion (bending) and fatigue. Most fingers point to the dynamic suspension parts as being the chassis components that are the main problem. Typically, suspension systems are pressed and fabricated from traditional materials, and it is in this area that Ian Jagger proposes to make improvements.
Ian has 30 years’ experience in technical engineering and mechanical design, primarily in the automotive industry. His company, DurArm, has designed suspension components formed and then fabricated where necessary by novel non-melt fabrication methods. This provides a lighter suspension system that is both stronger and longer lasting.
Ian joined the Regional Talent Engines programme in 2022 and says: “The scheme provides many of the support structures that a solo entrepreneur would find difficult to access on their own. It offers relevant training, advice and assistance, with a group of like-minded individuals to travel along the entrepreneurial road with.”
Ian is now conducting proof of concept, with visual and tactile prototypes in the pipeline. He is conducting competitor benchmarking to confirm the advantages that are envisaged. Then he will seek a route to market and hopes that his innovation will help EVs be more hardy and consistent performers on roads worldwide.