Helix, the Milton Keynes-based manufacturer of the world’s most power-dense electric motors and inverters, has announced the appointment of Richard Smith as its Chief Manufacturing Officer.
Richard’s new role in the Helix executive team is part of an expansion programme that has been driven by substantial business growth in higher volume programmes, enabled by the 2022 launch of Helix’s Scaleable Core Technology platform architecture.
Helix was launched out of parent company Integral Powertrain’s Integral e-Drive division as a new corporate brand in 2022. The launch saw the development of a new website and logo, designed to align Helix with the strategic transformation from consultant to full-service supplier of premium electric powertrains and marked another major milestone in the evolution of the organisation.
Since then, it has invested heavily in gearing up as a technology-driven global company, targeting new markets and sectors.
Helix engineers and manufactures power-dense motors and complementary inverters for demanding aerospace, automotive, industrial, marine and racing applications. Its unique Scalable Core Technology and Flexible Manufacturing Facility ensure straightforward access to the most powerful, compact, efficient electric powertrains on the market.
Scalable Core Technology is delivered through three strategic product levels, while the cycle of electric innovation begun by Integral Powertrain’s founders 15 years ago continues with X-Division, an advanced technology development group.
The unmatched power density of the company’s machines, proven in tough track and hypercar applications, where high duty cycles and robust performance are essential for success, is helping designers and OEMs realise opportunities in new applications and markets.
Combined with the imminent award of IATF16949 accreditation, Richard’s appointment reflects Helix’s commitment to meet ambitious growth targets.
Richard has an impressive track record of running global Tier 1 manufacturing operations, including extensive experience in factory management and high-volume manufacturing across more than 30 plants.
Helix Director and CEO Darren Cairns said:
“Richard’s talent and experience in high volume manufacturing and supply chain further strengthens our executive team and underpins delivery of our world-class products to a wider range of clients at greater scale.”
Richard Smith added:
“After several years working in the Tier 1 arena supporting ICE vehicles, it is a real pleasure to be a part of the global de-carbonisation effort, championed through the Helix product offering. I am excited to support the business’s next chapter of growth, bringing volume manufacturing to the group.”
Based on 15 years in high-end electric propulsion system engineering, Helix offers volume motor and inverter manufacturing capability. Its talented executive team, which now includes Richard Smith, uniquely qualify it to satisfy the burgeoning global demand for high-performance, power-dense electric motor technology. Based on solid, pioneering industry foundations, the firm’s engineers, technicians, production experts and supporting staff are always ready to innovate and deliver.
With a focus on sustainability, from design and engineering standpoints, the world-class power density and efficiency of Helix’s products means less material used in their construction and greater energy efficiency at vehicle level. Meanwhile, the patented rotor cooling system allows the use of ultra-strong magnets that are fully robust to demagnetisation, while reducing or eliminating the need for heavy rare earth elements. Sustainability is also built into test process and an important consideration as we look ahead to their end of life (EOL). International Material Data System studies are conducted on all production products, supporting the EOL requirements of OEM customers.
In addition, the firm’s Shenley Technical Centre, which represents more than half of the its building area, exceeds the strict Local Plan Policy D4 standard enforced by Milton Keynes City Council, and employs high-efficiency variable refrigerant flow heating, ventilation and cooling (VRF HVAC) systems in its offices, manufacturing and test facilities. It also uses high-specification, low U-factor composite cladding and roofing panels. Energy consumption is further reduced by roof-mounted solar panels.
For more information visit ehelix.com or follow the company on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
