My thoughts on a hub motor. There is usually a wire tie (zip tie) holding the axle side of the wire/plug to the frame. That needs to be snipped in order to remove the wheel. You do need to snip it and not stretch it while trying to dismount a tire. A toenail clipper will work. You could also replace the zip tie with a reuseable one, a piece of vinyl tape or a velcro loop if it can be kept from sliding out of place.
Also, a small (6") crescent wrench will work for loosening the axle nuts. One thing to be careful is that the wire coming out of the hollow axle should be cared for. Don't let the wheel fall over on the drive side as it can cut the wire with all that extra hub weight. Ask me how I know this!