Mahle wins German innovation award for magnet-free electric motor

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 ‘Excellence in Business-to-Business E-Mobility Technologies’ category.

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 percent at almost all operating points – a level that previously has only be 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 – and MAHLE is currently holding talks with numerous major vehicle manufacturers.

"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," said 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 electromobility that is scalable across all vehicle classes and promises high market potential.”

The German Innovation Award honours innovative achievements that break new ground through their added value. Innovations that advance the industry through originality, implementation and effectiveness receive the ‘Winner’ award. The jury is made up of independent, interdisciplinary experts from technology, digitisation, science, associations and institutions.