MAHLE bets big on localisation, introduces low voltage IPM motor for small EVs

MAHLE, a global auto component supplier and development partner in the automotive industry, has introduced a low voltage IPM Motor designed to operate on a variety of small electric vehicles, especially electric two- and three-wheelers at the Auto Expo 2020 - Components at Pragati Maidan (Hall 4A-FF / Stall. No 275).

It has also started increasing its footprints in the e-mobility segment aggressively during the past few years by localising mechatronics products as well as power electronics. Raj Kalra, President, MAHLE India said, “Sensing the opportunities in the electric vehicle market in India we have planned local production of electric drive systems here. The IPM Motors for example are greener products for the two wheeler industry. They show 93 percent system efficiency, are low on EMC emissions and are resistant to on road environmental condition.”

The MAHLE facility located in Coimbatore, will initially manufacture these high-capacity motors and controllers for electric two- and three-wheeler segments and will go into commercial production by April 2020, well in time to meet FAME II guidelines. Initially MAHLE will offer 48 V PMSM motors and controllers in the range from 4 to 18 Kilowatts. Subsequently MAHLE will expand its range to cater to high-voltage, high-capacity motors for hybrid cars.

According to Martin Wellhoeffer, corporate executive VP, sales and application engineering, “MAHLE has been a regular exhibitor in Auto Expo. Not only does this indicate how important the Indian market is for MAHLE, but it also reflects on MAHLE’s commitment towards its customers in India”.

The company has diversified into commercial vehicles and off-road vehicles too along with to two-, three-wheelers. Mahle recently increased its stake in its former 50:50 Joint Venture, MAHLE Electric Drives India (MEDl) to 90 percent. MEDI is a developer and supplier of various e-mobility products. Commenting on the importance of the India markets, Martin Wellhoeffer added that “We are BS VI ready and well prepared for future mobility with our dual company strategy. We are developing new solutions in the field of electric mobility. At the same time we are also improving the internal combustion engine. This will allow us a smooth transition in a world with a changing mobility.”