Heres a news item I'd like to know more about.

Axle Corporation of Japan has invented a new type of in-wheel electric motor that has enough torque and range to be used in electric motorcycles...and posssibly cars (?)...much more effectively than traditional motors currently available.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trws3k9vq6M&mode=related&search=

Havent been able to find much more info than in these links and video.

http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2006/04/10/003557.html

"Mark Eddinger writing for JCN reported that Axle Corporation, partnered with Genesis Corporation, has taken steps to overcome some of the greatest shortcomings of electric motorcycles, including insufficient range and lack of torque, with the introduction of the latest version of its Sumo motor.

The motor produces 2130W of power at 80% efficiency. It combines permanent and electromagnets to form a variable inductance magnet with improved performance.

Research and development partnerships with companies and universities will be sought to develop new products that use the motor's technology, Axle announced. Automobiles and household appliances were some specific future applications mentioned by the company.

The EV-X7 has a range of 180km (110 miles) with a charged battery. The battery requires six hours to fully charge. Its Sumo motor provides enough torque to climb a steep six-degree gradient at 25 km/hr (15 miles/hr).

The EV-X7 is being marketed as a quieter and more energy efficient alternative to gasoline-powered motorcycles. One full charge of the battery costs 80 yen (US $0.68) while a comparable 250cc motorcycle would need 4.5 liters of fuel to travel the same 180km, at a cost of 550 yen (US $4.70) at current electricity and gasoline prices in Japan, Axle explained."

http://www.motorbiker.org/blogs.nsf/dx/04042006105606MWECH5.htm

"Japanese electric vehicle manufacturer Axle unveils a new electric motorcycle EV-X7 powered by new hybrid magnetic motor SUMO, developed with its partner company Genesis Corp. in Tokyo April 4, 2006. The magnetic motor - a hybrid of a electromagnet and a permanent magnet - greatly enhances energy efficiency and allows the electric motorcycle to travel up to 180 kilometres (112 miles) on one charge, the makers said."