The Daewoo Matiz electric vehicle conversion project aims to transform this classic microcar into a zero-emission electric model. In the entire conversion system, the 20kW motor system plays the role of the driving core, providing the vehicle with necessary power and torque to ensure smooth, efficient, and reliable daily commuting and urban driving.
1. Motor Core Specifications
1.1 Basic Electrical Parameters
The system adopts a 96V, 20kW permanent magnet synchronous motor solution. The 96V voltage platform can better match the compact electrical layout and safety requirements of the Matiz, while the 20kW rated power provides ample power reserve for urban road driving for this small car.
1.2 Performance Highlights
Technical Note: Current motors of the same class widely use low-loss silicon steel sheets and optimized magnetic circuit design, continuously improving power and temperature resistance while maintaining compact size.
2. System Integration Design
2.1 Drive Control System
The system includes the motor, controller, and inverter. The inverter converts battery DC power into three-phase AC power to drive the motor; the controller uses vector control algorithms to achieve precise, smooth adjustment of speed and torque, ensuring power response aligns with driving habits.
2.2 Thermal Management System
To ensure stability during continuous high-load operation, both the motor and controller integrate liquid cooling channels. The coolant circulates driven by a pump, exchanging heat with external air through aluminum radiators. Mainstream compact liquid cooling systems in 2025 can achieve low noise, high heat exchange efficiency, and support intelligent temperature control adjustment.
3. Actual Performance Validation
3.1 Power and Load Testing
Under dynamometer simulation of various road spectrum loads, the motor can continuously output 20kW rated power, with short-term overload capability up to 25kW (lasting 30 seconds), meeting urban overtaking and short-term acceleration needs.
3.2 Torque-Speed Characteristic Verification
Actual torque-speed curve measurements show that the motor can output near-peak torque from 0 RPM and maintain high levels across a wide RPM range, which is particularly important for starting response and low-to-medium speed acceleration. The maximum 6500 RPM allows the vehicle to maintain appropriate cruising efficiency even on urban expressways.
4. Key Adaptation Points in Matiz Conversion
- Installation Space: The motor's compact size allows adaptation to original engine mounting points; some conversion cases require custom transition brackets
- Electrical Connection: The 96V system requires connection to the vehicle's low-voltage electrical system (12V) via a DC-DC converter
- Transmission Matching: Can retain part of the original vehicle's transmission structure, or use a single-stage reducer for direct drive, reducing transmission losses
- Vehicle Tuning: The motor control system supports parameterized debugging, allowing adjustment of torque response curves and energy recovery intensity according to driving style
5. Summary and Outlook
5.1 System Advantages Summary
This 20kW motor system provides a reliable, efficient power foundation for Daewoo Matiz electric vehicle conversions. Its high torque output, wide efficiency range, and stable temperature control performance allow the Matiz to maintain agile and light driving feel after electrification, while significantly reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.
5.2 Future Application Potential
With the continuous growth of urban electrified transportation needs in 2025, such compact and efficient 20kW-class drive systems are not only suitable for microcar conversions like the Matiz but also can be widely applied to light logistics vehicles, shared micro-mobility tools, and other special electric platforms. Motor technology is developing toward higher integration (such as "three-in-one" electric drive), wider voltage adaptation ranges, and more intelligent online calibration, providing better solutions for small electric vehicle conversions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected range with a 20kW motor in a Daewoo Matiz?
A Daewoo Matiz converted with a 20kW motor system and a typical 20-25 kWh battery pack can achieve a range of 80-120 miles (130-190 km) on a single charge, depending on driving conditions, battery type, and vehicle weight.
How difficult is it to convert a Daewoo Matiz to electric?
The Matiz is actually one of the easier cars to convert due to its light weight and simple mechanical layout. With the right 20kW motor system and proper planning, a mechanically inclined DIYer can complete the conversion in 100-200 hours. Professional shops can typically complete it in 40-80 hours.
Can I still use the original transmission with a 20kW motor?
Yes, many Matiz conversions retain the original transmission, which allows for gear selection and can improve efficiency at higher speeds. However, some builders prefer a direct drive setup with a single-speed reducer for simplicity and reduced maintenance.
What battery capacity is recommended for a Matiz conversion?
For a balanced mix of range and weight, we recommend a 20-25 kWh battery pack. This provides adequate range while keeping the vehicle's weight increase manageable. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are often recommended for their safety and longevity.
How much does a complete Matiz EV conversion cost?
A complete Matiz EV conversion with a 20kW motor system typically costs between $8,000 and $15,000 USD, depending on component choices (battery type, motor, controller) and whether you do the work yourself or hire professionals. The motor system itself represents about 20-30% of the total cost.
Is the 20kW motor powerful enough for highway driving?
Yes, a 20kW motor (approximately 27 horsepower equivalent) is sufficient for highway driving in a lightweight vehicle like the Matiz. While acceleration at highway speeds won't be as quick as with larger motors, the 20kW system can comfortably maintain speeds of 65-70 mph (105-113 km/h) and handle most driving situations.
