Sumitomo Electric has developed what is being called the world’s first automobile powered by a superconducting motor. The electric passenger sedan — a modified Toyota Crown Comfort — was unveiled in Osaka on June 12 and will go on display at the Hokkaido Toyako G8 Summit on June 19.
Superconductors — energy-efficient materials that can carry electrical current without resistance — are used in applications ranging from medical devices to linear motors for trains. Until now, however, they have never been used to power an automobile, says Sumitomo.
Sumitomo’s motor uses superconducting materials instead of the copper wire typically used in the coils in electric vehicle motors. With virtually no electrical resistance or current loss, the motor can operate with greater energy efficiency and torque — in other words, it uses less electricity to do the same amount of work. The company says the prototype vehicle can travel 10% farther […]

Original post by Edo