The German Design Council has presented MAHLE with the German Innovation Award for its magnet-free electric motor.
The technology group secured the “Winner” award in the category “Excellence in Business-to-Business E-Mobility Technologies”. This novel motor does not require rare earth elements and therefore offers great potential—not only from a geopolitical perspective but also with regard to the responsible use of nature and resources. A further central feature of the new motor is the contactless power transmission which allows for wear and maintenance-free operation. The efficiency is above 95% at almost all operating points—a level that previously has only been achieved by Formula E racing cars. This new development can be used in anything from subcompacts to commercial vehicles. The engine is generating considerable interest amongst customers.
“Our magnet-free motor represents an innovative leap in e-mobility, as it provides several advantages that previously could not be combined in a product of this type,” says Dr. Martin Berger, Vice President Corporate Research and Advanced Engineering at MAHLE. “The motor is a key component of our e-mobility strategy and the foundation for sustainable and resource-saving drive systems.”
The jury based the award on the fact that the necessary transmission of electrical currents between the rotating and stationary parts inside the motor is contactless and therefore wear-free. According to the jury statement: “This makes it not only maintenance-free and durable but also particularly efficient and attractive for a wide range of applications. Another advantage is that the motor requires no rare earths, thus saving raw materials and making it even more sustainable. A highly exciting new development in the field of e-mobility that is scalable across all vehicle classes and promises high market potential.”