Chinese automaker Geely has revealed a new approach to vehicle control that could fundamentally change how electric cars maneuver in tight spaces. In a recent demonstration video, the company showcased a self-developed in-wheel motor system on a prototype version of its EX5 electric crossover, allowing the vehicle to move sideways and rotate in place by turning its wheels up to 90 degrees.
At the heart of the system is a modular driving unit that integrates electric motors directly into each wheel. Unlike conventional EV layouts that rely on centralized motors and mechanical linkages, Geely’s setup gives every wheel independent drive and steering control. This enables movements that are impossible for standard vehicles, including zero-radius turns, lateral motion, and precise positioning in extremely confined spaces.
In the video, the prototype EX5 is shown performing on-the-spot rotations and sliding sideways into parking spaces before exiting smoothly without traditional steering input. Both the front and rear wheels can rotate independently and even in opposite directions, giving the vehicle exceptional agility. Geely says this level of control could be especially useful in dense urban environments where parking and maneuvering are constant challenges.
During the demonstration, the vehicle was guided remotely using a control glove, which translated hand motions into precise wheel movements. Geely described this interface as a temporary solution. In future versions, the company expects the system to be controlled through consumer devices such as smartphones or smartwatches, allowing owners to reposition their vehicles remotely with fine accuracy.
The in-wheel motor design also opens the door to advanced stability features. By adjusting torque and steering angle at each wheel independently, the system could improve control on slippery roads or in strong crosswinds. Geely says this granular control allows the vehicle to respond instantly to changing conditions, potentially enhancing both safety and ride comfort.
There are, however, visible trade-offs. To accommodate wheels that can rotate a full 90 degrees, the prototype’s rear wheel arches appear significantly enlarged. Reports suggest this may reduce interior space, and the test vehicle shown had blacked-out windows and possibly removed rear seating, indicating that packaging challenges remain unresolved.
The EX5 itself is positioned as a key model in Geely’s global electric expansion. In production form, it features a front-mounted electric motor producing 160 kW and a 60.2 kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of about 267 miles. While the in-wheel motor system is still experimental, it signals Geely’s ambition to push EV design beyond traditional constraints and rethink how cars move in everyday environments.
