Chinese automotive giant Geely has unveiled a striking new electric vehicle technology that could dramatically change how cars move in tight urban spaces. The company recently showcased advanced in-wheel motors capable of rotating each wheel up to 90 degrees, allowing an EV to move sideways, diagonally, or pivot almost on the spot.
At the heart of this innovation is Geely’s next-generation in-wheel motor system, which integrates propulsion, braking, and steering directly into the wheel hub. Unlike conventional EVs that rely on centralized motors and mechanical steering linkages, this setup gives each wheel independent control. As a result, the vehicle gains an unprecedented level of maneuverability, particularly useful for parking and navigating narrow city streets.
A New Level of Urban Maneuverability
With 90-degree wheel rotation, vehicles equipped with this system can perform lateral movements similar to a crab walk. Drivers could slide into parking spaces without turning the steering wheel or rotate the car around its own axis in extremely confined areas. Geely demonstrated how this technology can reduce the turning radius to nearly zero, offering solutions to one of urban driving’s biggest frustrations.
Beyond convenience, the system also improves vehicle stability and safety. Independent wheel control allows faster torque adjustments, helping the car maintain balance during sudden maneuvers or on slippery surfaces. At the same time, removing bulky drivetrain components frees up interior space and opens new possibilities for vehicle design.
From Concept to Future Roads
Geely has positioned this technology as a foundation for its future electric platforms rather than a one-off concept. While the company has not confirmed a production timeline, the in-wheel motor system is expected to play a role in next-generation EVs, autonomous vehicles, and premium urban mobility solutions.
As cities grow denser and parking space becomes scarcer, innovations like sideways-moving EVs may soon shift from eye-catching demonstrations to everyday driving realities.
