Chinese partnership helps power Elaphe's new EV technology

In an old industrial zone outside Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, a lot of small companies found their place. Among them is Elaphe. Its entrance isn't too different from any other of the small businesses here. 

But what's inside is the most intriguing part, as Elaphe is arguably the world leader in the electric in-wheel motors systems. As soon as you enter an unimpressive front door, a couple of big signs "greet" the visitors, clearly explaining that no cameras or prying eyes are allowed behind those doors. And it is no wonder why, as the company is engaged in some breakthrough technologies. 

Their concept, which started over two decades ago, is to remove the motors from the car's body and place them into its wheels. An innovative idea that should result in more car space, lower weight, extended range, higher efficiency, and better maneuverability. Slovenia is investing heavily in EV technology and is catching Norway as the country that produces the most EVs per capita.

Elaphe's recent growth is part of a national drive to mass produce in-wheel motors. To achieve this goal, Elaphe created a number of international partnerships, including one with the Chinese company APG.

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"Since they (APG) are connected to all of Chinese carmakers, this is a huge opportunity for us, because we have the opportunity to expose our technology to all of the carmakers." Gorazd Lampič, Elaphe's CEO, told us. "So, I have high hopes for the revolution of this technology, also in China and other parts of Asia."

The Elaphe collaboration is just one of the examples of successful China-Slovenia deals in the technology industry. The Slovenian Pipistrel produces electrically powered light aircraft in its factory in China. 

Hisense opened its technology center in Slovenia, as the government welcomes this investment that has been bolstered by the Cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European Countries initiative.

"This initiative is a very practical tool for the cooperation between the central and eastern European countries and China." Slobodan Šešum from the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told us. "There are many activities, there are many proposals, so we think it is very useful, and a nice possibility to expand economic cooperation between China and Slovenia through that initiative."

And while the governments are pushing for closer cooperation, the companies are suggesting expanding it to the areas of technological research.

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