Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
SurfacePlan proposes replacing conventional wheel spokes with a ring of linear actuators that push against the road at the tire’s contact patch. It is an ambitious drivetrain alternative, but it remains a concept in development: the sources reviewed do not establish that a working road vehicle has been demonstrated.
How the SurfacePlan wheel is intended to work
Conventional wheels receive torque from a drivetrain and use that rotation to move the vehicle. SurfacePlan’s concept instead places multiple piston-like linear actuators around the wheel. Rubber-tipped actuator ends would extend beyond the wheel’s perimeter, press against the road, and retract in sequence to generate forward force at the contact patch. The concept’s inventor, David Henson, says the actuators could be electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically driven.
Henson summarized the premise to New Atlas: “Why move a piston to move a shaft to move a gear to turn a wheel, when you can apply the thrust exactly where it’s needed?” That is the design rationale, not evidence that the arrangement is more efficient or reliable than a conventional drivetrain.
What the published specifications actually say
SurfacePlan’s project page describes a proposed prototype and asks for input on high-cycle actuators. Its figures are design targets and project claims, not results from a tested vehicle.
#1 Best Overall
- FAST BRUSHLESS RC POWER: The 2845 3800KV motor and independent 45A ESC deliver speeds up to 25 MPH with the included 2S battery. Compatible with 3S batteries for speeds up to 40 MPH. 3S battery sold separately.
- 0-100% ADJUSTABLE THROTTLE: Use the transmitter dial to limit the speed for beginners, then gradually increase the power as driving skills improve. This remote control car can feel smooth and manageable for learning or fast and responsive for experienced drivers
- ALL-TERRAIN GRIP AND STABILITY: A wide 202 mm (7.95 in) track, large 85 45 mm foam-filled tires, oil-filled shocks and 24 mm (0.94 in) ground clearance help this off-road RC truck stay stable across grass, gravel, dirt and pavement. Enjoy better grip and control through turns, jumps and landings
- HOBBY-GRADE AND SERVICEABLE: This hobby-grade RC car features a modular chassis, all-metal drivetrain, 15 ball bearings and replaceable electronics, making maintenance and repairs more straightforward
- 3 BATTERIES AND 2 BODY SHELLS: 3 included batteries provide more driving time with less waiting, while the black and green body shells let you quickly change the look. The oversized rear wing and dual wheelie bar add more fun for jumps, drifts, wheelies and family race sessions
| Item | What SurfacePlan proposes |
|---|---|
| Potential vehicle-weight reduction | 60–80%, a SurfacePlan project-site claim accessed in 2026; not independently validated. |
| Prototype pod mass | 1,600 lb (approximately 727 kg), a proposed target in the actuator request dated October 15, 2025. |
| Wheel size | 28 in diameter × 8 in wide, a proposed prototype parameter in the October 15, 2025 request. |
| Actuators per wheel | Approximately 18, a proposed prototype parameter in the October 15, 2025 request. |
| Peak actuator force | Approximately 200–400 N, a requested target in the October 15, 2025 request; the page also asks respondents to provide sustained-force information. |
| Preferred actuator stroke | 20–30 mm, a requested preference on SurfacePlan’s project page. |
| Henson’s weight-reduction estimate | 50–75%, as reported by New Atlas in 2025; an inventor claim, not a measured result. |
The two weight-reduction ranges come from different statements: New Atlas reported Henson’s 50–75% estimate, while SurfacePlan’s site gives a 60–80% claim. Neither is an independently verified vehicle result. Likewise, the actuator request describes what the project is seeking; it does not show that a selected component meets those targets.
Could it replace a vehicle’s drivetrain?
That is the intended ambition, but replacement is not established. SurfacePlan aims to generate propulsion directly where the wheel meets the road rather than transmit torque through a conventional drivetrain. The concept shares one broad feature with an electric hub motor—placing propulsion technology at the wheel—but the mechanisms differ. A hub motor delivers torque to rotate the wheel; SurfacePlan proposes a sequence of actuator thrusts against the road. New Atlas describes hub motors as a more familiar and well-understood approach.
Rank #2
- Feel the Rush of 50+ MPH — This 1/10 brushless RC monster truck pairs a 3650 2650KV motor with a 60A ESC, metal heat sink and cooling fan for strong acceleration, exciting top speed and serious off-road fun
- Fast Enough to Thrill, Easy Enough to Control — Built-in gyro stabilization, an 11KG metal-gear servo and 4WD traction help keep steering responsive and stable. Choose 0%, 25%, 70% or 100% throttle as your skills grow
- Take It Beyond the Pavement — Airless all-terrain tires and adjustable oil-filled shocks absorb rough impacts and help maintain control on grass, gravel and dirt. Drive harder with more confidence on changing surfaces
- Built to Handle the Tough Stuff — A 2.5 mm hardened aluminum chassis, carbon-fiber reinforced upper deck and shock towers, reinforced A-arms, thick PC body and composite bumper are made for demanding runs and jumps
- Smooth Power You Can Feel — The CNC center differential, reinforced center driveshaft and precision CNC gears deliver efficient, consistent power to all four wheels while helping reduce drivetrain noise during high-speed driving
New Atlas reported on September 23, 2025, that the SurfacePlan design had not yet reached the prototype-and-testing stage. SurfacePlan’s later project-page material discusses seeking actuator input and building a prototype, but the available sources do not establish successful testing in a road-going vehicle.
Engineering questions the concept must answer
New Atlas identifies several substantial challenges. They are questions raised about the proposal, not findings from a completed engineering evaluation.
- Traction and force direction: If an actuator’s push creates a significant vertical component, it could reduce the tire’s effective contact with the road rather than contribute entirely to forward motion.
- Sealing and contamination: Moving rods would need to operate while exposed to mud, water, grit, and other road debris.
- Failure behavior: A bent or stuck actuator could affect the wheel’s operation; the sources do not establish how the design would detect or safely handle such failures.
- Power demand: Operating many actuators could require substantial power, and the sources do not provide validated consumption figures.
- Unsprung mass: Hardware mounted in the wheel moves with the suspension. Added unsprung mass can make suspension control more difficult, so the actual mass and its effects matter.
- Complexity and cost: Many moving parts could make the assembly more complex to manufacture, service, and replace than a conventional wheel.
- High-speed operation: Rotating-wheel centrifugal forces could affect actuators and their components; the sources provide no demonstrated high-speed performance.
What to watch for in a credible demonstration
A convincing road-going demonstration would need to go beyond a concept rendering or a component request. Useful evidence would include a working prototype, measured propulsion and power-use data, repeatable performance under load, and testing that addresses contamination, actuator faults, traction, and speed. Until such evidence is available, the proposed weight savings and traction benefits should be treated as claims rather than established advantages.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- High Quality Universal Joint Shafts：Crafted from durable, precision molded ABS plastic, these 3L light grey connectors feature smooth articulation for seamless motion in suspension, drive, and differential systems. Built to withstand repeated use in models compatible with legoes technical MOC (My Own Creation) builds.
- Compatible with legoes Systems：Fully compatible with legoes parts 61903 and 62520c01, ensuring snug connections and zero play. Ideal for upgrading or expanding mechanical assemblies in Technic sets, robotics projects, or custom vehicle builds.
- 20PCS for Versatile Projects：Each pack includes 20 pieces, providing ample supply for complex builds or bulk replacements. Mix and match with other axle components to create dynamic steering systems, gearboxes, or articulated mechanisms.
- Engineered for Mechanical Performance：Designed with a universal joint structure to transmit torque through angled shafts, making them critical for realistic drivetrain setups. Enhance your models with functional suspension articulation or differential rotation for advanced mechanical realism.
- Unleash Creative MOC Possibilities：Whether you’re a hobbyist, educator, or STEM enthusiast, these shafts inspire innovation in robotics, engineering prototypes, or artistic builds. Compatible with all major brick systems, they offer endless potential for cross-brand customization.
Rank #4
- Powerful Motor: 48V 1000W brushless DC differential motor with a maximum speed of 20mph.
- Complete Drivetrain Solution: Includes a 30" differential rear axle drive shaft and essential components for a full drivetrain system.
- Full Kit for Easy Installation: Comes with a comprehensive set of components including a speed controller, wiring harness, and throttle pedal.
- Versatile Application: Perfect for DIY projects, go-karts, ATVs, quads, and trikes, ensuring efficient power distribution and improved performance.
- High-Quality Build: Made from durable materials to withstand tough conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
