Automotive Traction Motor: Powering the Future of Electric
Vehicles
The global automotive industry is undergoing a significant
transformation with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). As the demand for
sustainable transportation grows, automotive traction motors play a crucial
role in powering these EVs. This essay aims to explore the concept of
automotive traction motors, their importance in the electric vehicle industry,
and the top impacting factors and government policies influencing their
development.
Definition and Function
of Automotive Traction Motor
An automotive traction motor is an electric motor
specifically designed for propulsion in electric and hybrid vehicles. Its
primary function is to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy,
generating torque to propel the vehicle. These motors are critical components
in EVs as they provide high efficiency, compact size, and improved performance
compared to traditional internal combustion engines.
Importance of
Automotive Traction Motors in Electric Vehicles
Automotive traction motors are vital for electric vehicles
due to the following reasons:
Traction motors offer significantly higher energy efficiency
compared to internal combustion engines, leading to reduced energy consumption
and increased overall range of electric vehicles.
By eliminating tailpipe emissions, automotive traction
motors help address the pressing environmental concerns associated with fossil
fuel-powered vehicles, contributing to cleaner air and reduced carbon
footprint.
Traction motors enable regenerative braking systems, which
capture and convert kinetic energy during deceleration and braking, further
improving energy efficiency and extending the vehicle's range.
Electric vehicles powered by traction motors produce minimal
noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience for both
passengers and pedestrians.
Top Impacting Factors
on Automotive Traction Motor Development:
Several factors significantly impact the development and
adoption of automotive traction motors. The key factors include:
Continuous advancements in electric motor technologies, such
as improved power density, higher efficiency, and reduced weight, drive the
development of automotive traction motors, making them more suitable for EV
applications.
The performance and range of electric vehicles are closely
tied to battery technology. Advancements in battery energy density, charging
capabilities, and affordability directly influence the design and development
of traction motors to optimize their performance.
The cost of automotive traction motors remains a significant
barrier to widespread EV adoption. As technology advances and economies of
scale are realized, the cost of manufacturing traction motors is expected to
decrease, making EVs more affordable for consumers.
Government Policies
and Regulations
Government policies play a crucial role in shaping the
electric vehicle industry and promoting the development of automotive traction
motors. Some notable policies include:
Incentives and Subsidies: Governments worldwide provide
financial incentives, tax credits, and subsidies to encourage the adoption of
electric vehicles. These incentives reduce the upfront cost for consumers, making
EVs and traction motors more attractive.
Emission Standards: Governments impose stringent emission
standards and regulations, which push automakers to transition to electric
vehicles. These standards drive the demand for automotive traction motors that
power the EVs.
Research and Development Funding: Governments invest in
research and development programs to foster innovation in electric vehicle
technologies, including automotive traction motors. These initiatives
accelerate technological advancements and contribute to the overall growth of
the industry.
Dynamics of Automotive Traction Motor Market
Drivers in Automotive
Traction Motor Market
The rising concern regarding the environmental impact of
traditional vehicles has led to a surge in demand for electric vehicles (EVs).
Governments worldwide are actively promoting the adoption of alternative fuel
vehicles, with EVs being a zero-emission option. To incentivize consumers,
various national governments offer financial benefits such as tax exemptions,
rebates, subsidies, reduced parking/toll fees, and free charging
infrastructure.
There is a growing trend towards Smart Hybrid technology,
which utilizes an integrated traction motor that also acts as a starter motor,
providing additional torque during acceleration with the assistance of a dual
battery setup. Stringent government regulations and increasing environmental
awareness regarding carbon emissions have prompted a shift towards electric
vehicles. The rising demand for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in
hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which heavily rely on traction motors, is
expected to drive significant growth in the market. Leading manufacturers and
key players in the industry are collaborating to develop traction motor packs that
can operate effectively under high temperatures, creating lucrative
opportunities in the market. The demand for 48 V traction motors is
particularly high in developing countries like India, Mexico, and Brazil, where
engines equipped with such technologies claim high mileage. Both commercial and
passenger segments are witnessing a strong demand for all-wheel drive BEVs,
PHEVs, and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), further bolstering the automotive
traction motor market, especially in developing nations.
Restraints in
Automotive Traction Motor Market
The limited availability of supporting infrastructure for
EVs has posed a challenge to the growth of the automotive traction motor
market. While traction motors are essential for the functioning of EVs, the
frequent need for battery recharging requires a well-developed charging
infrastructure.
To address this issue, some developing countries have
focused on boosting EV demand by providing incentives for the installation and
operation of charging stations. For example, the federal government of Mexico
offers tax credits of up to USD 1,500 for the purchase and installation of EV
charging stations in commercial buildings. Affordable housing buildings may
receive a tax credit of up to USD 3,000 for such infrastructure, thereby
encouraging EV infrastructure development and increasing EV adoption.
Similarly, the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) covers 90% of the cost
of purchasing, installing, and maintaining qualified light-duty EV charging stations,
further supporting the growth of EV infrastructure.
Opportunities in
Automotive Traction Motor Market
The fluctuating prices of fossil fuels present an
opportunity for alternative energy sources and technologies. Fossil fuels, such
as coal, oil, and gas, have long been the driving force behind technological,
social, and economic progress. However, the negative environmental impact,
particularly the production of carbon dioxide (CO2) upon burning these fuels,
has prompted the search for cleaner and more sustainable energy options.
The price of gasoline, which is derived from petroleum, is
directly influenced by changes in crude oil prices. When the price of gasoline
decreases, consumers have more disposable income for other purchases. The
impact of lower fuel prices on vehicle consumption varies across different
countries, depending on their fuel prices and tax structures. For instance,
consumers in countries with high fuel taxes, like Norway, may experience a
relatively smaller percentage change in the overall price compared to consumers
in countries with lower fuel taxes, like the United States. This price
sensitivity to fuel fluctuations creates opportunities for alternative fuels
and technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs) powered by renewable energy
sources.
Fossil fuel prices are also subject to volatility due to
external factors such as trade barriers, sanctions, conflicts, and supply
concentration in specific regions. These factors can lead to price manipulation
and market uncertainties. In response, renewable fuel resources, such as
biofuels and shale gas, are gaining traction as viable alternatives. The
economics of road transportation are shifting in favor of renewable energy
sources, and EVs are benefiting from this transition. Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEMs) and parts manufacturers are actively exploring
partnerships to compete in the growing EV market. This presents a significant
growth opportunity for manufacturers of traction motors, which are essential
components in all types of EVs.
Challenges in
Automotive Traction Motor Market
One of the significant challenges in the adoption of
electric vehicles is the cost of automotive traction motors. EV manufacturers
aim to reduce production costs to make electric vehicles more affordable and competitive
with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. While advancements in
technology and economies of scale have contributed to cost reduction over time,
further cost reduction is crucial for broader market penetration.
Another challenge is range anxiety, which refers to concerns
about the limited driving range of EVs compared to ICE vehicles. Potential
buyers may hesitate to switch to EVs due to worries about running out of
battery power during long journeys. Addressing range anxiety requires advancements
in battery technology, specifically improving energy density and charging
speed. Manufacturers invest in research and development to enhance battery
capabilities and reduce charging times to improve the range and performance of
electric vehicles.
Furthermore, the availability and accessibility of charging
infrastructure play a vital role in promoting widespread EV adoption. A robust
and widespread charging network is necessary to alleviate range anxiety and
provide convenient charging options for EV owners.
The automotive traction motor industry also faces challenges
related to the secure and sustainable supply chain for critical components like
rare earth metals and magnets. Ensuring a consistent supply of these materials
at affordable prices can be challenging due to geopolitical factors, limited
reserves, and environmental concerns associated with mining and extraction.
Efficient thermal management is another crucial challenge
for traction motors. These motors generate heat during operation, and effective
cooling systems are necessary to dissipate heat and prevent overheating.
Optimal thermal management is essential for maximizing motor efficiency and longevity.
Lastly, the automotive industry operates within a complex
regulatory framework. Meeting stringent emissions and efficiency standards set
by governments worldwide poses challenges for the development and adoption of
traction motors. Compliance with evolving regulations requires continuous
innovation and investment in meeting environmental targets and improving
overall sustainability.
Ecosystem of Automotive Traction Motor Market
The vehicle type segment experiencing the fastest growth in
the automotive traction motor market is estimated to be Buses. Electric buses
and coaches have seen an increasing adoption by public authorities, non-profit
organizations, and private companies. Prominent electric bus manufacturers
include BYD (China), Yutong (China), Proterra (US), VDL Group (Netherlands),
Olectra Greentech (India), New Flyer (Canada), Foton Motors (China), and AB
Volvo (Sweden). While some electric bus manufacturers such as BYD, BAIC, and
Geely produce their own traction motors in-house, others rely on suppliers like
Magna, Continental, BorgWarner, and Meritor. This rising demand for buses will
drive the automotive traction motor market. Furthermore, advancements in
battery technologies have increased the operating range of these buses,
contributing to the demand for traction motors. The growing need for
emission-free public transportation options in both developed and emerging
countries is expected to fuel the electric buses segment, thereby driving the
demand for traction motors.
During the forecast period, the AC motor will lead the
automotive traction motor market in the "by type" segment. The
dominance of the AC segment can be attributed to the widespread adoption of AC
traction motors. These motors offer higher efficiency, improved speed
performance, and superior acceleration compared to DC electric traction motors.
One of the notable advantages of electric vehicles is their
quiet operation, providing up to 99% torque even at zero revolutions per minute
(RPM). Electric vehicles can utilize either AC or DC motors, with the main
distinction being the voltage at which the motor operates. Typically, DC motors
operate within the 96-192 V range, while AC motors are usually three-phase
motors running at 240 V. DC motors generally cover the 20 to 30 kW range.
The increasing demand for zero-emission vehicles with high
fuel efficiency at a reasonable price is driving the demand for Battery
Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The BEV segment is particularly suited for permanent
magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) due to their efficiency, compact size, and
high density. This favorable combination of factors is expected to drive the
growth of the BEV segment in the automotive traction motor market.
The Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) is anticipated
to dominate the market throughout the forecast period due to its exceptional
reliability and efficiency. The utilization of rare earth magnets in PMSMs has
enabled them to become smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective. These motors
generate a rotating field that powers the vehicle, thereby positively impacting
revenue growth in the foreseeable future.
Furthermore, the compact size, lightweight nature, and high
torque characteristics of PMSMs make them ideal for innovative vehicle designs
such as gauge-adjustable trains and low floor, light rail vehicles with
gearless direct drive systems. This factor is expected to drive the growth of
the market.
The segment of motors with a power rating of less than 200
kW holds the largest revenue share and is projected to experience substantial
growth over the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the
increasing demand for traction motors in electric vehicles, which typically
require an average power output of less than 200 kW.
Additionally, the power output range of 30 to 50 kW is also
in high demand for many passenger cars. This segment further contributes to the
overall market growth.
The segment of motors with a power rating of 200 to 400 kW
is expected to be the second-largest, leading the market. These motors find
applications in various commercial vehicles such as metro trains, subway
trains, and high-speed trains, thus contributing significantly to revenue
growth.
Regional Insights
According to forecasts, Europe is projected to hold a
significant share of 26.4% in the global automotive traction motor market by
2027, in terms of value. Germany is anticipated to be the largest market for
automotive traction motors in Europe. This can be attributed to the increasing
demand for electrification in both personal and public transport fleets, as
well as the growing utilization of electric vans in the logistics industry.
Germany boasts several prominent traction motor manufacturers, including Robert
Bosch GmbH, Schaeffler Group, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Continental AG, and MAHLE
Group. These companies have been actively developing new products, establishing
joint ventures, and securing supply contracts with key Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEMs). Their contributions have significantly contributed to the
growth of the automotive traction motor market in Germany.
Asia Pacific, on the other hand, is the second-largest
region for automotive traction motors and is expected to witness faster growth
during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to factors such as
rising urbanization, advancements in electric vehicles, and developments in
countries like China, Brazil, Mexico, and India. Government initiatives
promoting electric mobility and the surge in demand for high-performance motors
are expected to drive the demand for automotive traction motors in the region.
Overall, Europe and Asia Pacific present substantial
opportunities for the automotive traction motor market, with Germany and China
being key players in their respective regions. The increasing adoption of
electric vehicles and the support of government initiatives are expected to
contribute to the growth of the automotive traction motor market in these
regions.
Dominating Companies in Automotive Traction Motor Market
- BORGWARNER INC.
- BYD CO., LTD.
- SCHAEFFLER GROUP
- ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
- ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
- JOHNSON ELECTRIC HOLDINGS LTD.
- CONTINENTAL AG
- VALEO S.A.
- MAHLE GROUP
- NIDEC CORPORATION
- MITSUBA CORPORATION
- ZHEJIANG FOUNDER MOTOR CO., LTD.
- SHENZHEN INOVANCE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
- DENSO CORPORATION
- JING-JIN ELECTRIC
- SHANGHAI EDRIVE CO., LTD.
- UNITED AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
- ZHUHAI ENPOWER ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
- SHUANGLIN GROUP
- ZHUZHOU CRRC TIMES ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
- XPT DRIVE TECHNOLOGY
- AISIN CORPORATION
- GKN AUTOMOTIVE LIMITED
- ANAND MANDO EMOBILITY
- HYUNDAI TRANSYS INC
- ABB
- Alstom S.A.
- American Traction Systems
- Ansaldo Signalling
- Bombardier Inc.
- Caterpillar Inc.
- CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd.
- Delphi Automotive Llp
- General Electric Co.
- Hitachi
- Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd.
- Magna International
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Prodrive Technologies
- Siemens AG
- The Curtiss-Wright Corporation
- Toshiba Corporation
- VEM Group
- Voith Gmbh
Recent Developments in Automotive Traction Motor Market
- In May 2022, BYD Co., Ltd. introduced its intelligence
Torque Adaption Control (iTAC) system, which was developed entirely by the
company. The iTAC system demonstrates remarkable response speed by predicting
changes in wheel speeds over 50 ms in advance. It offers various control
strategies, including torque transfer, precise torque reduction, and negative
torque output, enabled by the motor's rapid reaction speed and precise speed
adjustment. This innovative system will be incorporated into BYD models built
on the new e-platform 3.0, enhancing their performance.
- During the same month, ZF Friedrichshafen AG unveiled a
range of new electric drive modules and systems. These include a modular and
scalable silicon carbide (SiC) inverter architecture, a hairpin electric motor,
an electric powertrain, and accessories known as eWorX. The SiC inverter
architecture allows for maximum output flexibility, supporting e-motor
operation from 400 V to 800 V. ZF's e-motor portfolio follows a modular
approach with a common electromagnetic design for the stator, offering options
of an asynchronous motor (ASM) or permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PSM)
design for the rotor. With power classes ranging from 75 kW to 400 kW and
topologies from 400 V to 800 V, ZF's electric drive solutions cater to diverse
requirements. The newly developed eWorX product range simplifies the
integration of electric systems by providing compact solutions with a
standardized interface, facilitating the electrification of work equipment and
accessories.
- In May 2022, BorgWarner Inc. secured a contract to supply
high-voltage hairpin (HVH) eMotors to a leading EV brand in China. These
eMotors will be integrated into the company's second-generation 800 V
propulsion system platform and are scheduled for mass production in October
2023. BorgWarner's 800 V oil-cooled eMotors are available as complete motor
assemblies or stator and rotor subassemblies. They incorporate built-in
permanent magnet rotor technology and proprietary stator insulation
enhancements, ensuring exceptional durability and reliability.
- Earlier in April 2022, BorgWarner Inc. successfully
completed the acquisition of Santroll Automotive Components. This acquisition
is expected to enhance BorgWarner's market responsiveness while strengthening
its vertical integration, size, and portfolio breadth in the light vehicle
e-motor segment. Santroll, a Chinese company based in Tianjin, specializes in
the production of eMotors for light vehicles using concentrated-winding and
hairpin technology. It also supplies its proprietary technology to the Chinese
OEM market.
- In March 2022, ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India
Ltd., a subsidiary of ZF Friedrichshafen AG, announced a significant investment
of USD 18.9 million in expanding its capacity through a greenfield venture in
Chennai, India. The company plans to establish a new facility on a 44-acre plot
of land in Chennai's manufacturing corridor, Oragadam. Production is set to
commence in the first quarter of 2023. This expansion is driven by the global integration
of Wabco and ZF, and it will enable the company to offer new products
specifically tailored for the Indian market. Additionally, the investment will
take advantage of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, enabling the
localization of innovative technologies in the electric vehicle sector and
other advanced fields.
- In September 2021, Robert Bosch GmbH unveiled its new 230
Electric Motor at Motor Bella 2021. Designed for commercial and medium-duty
vehicles, this motor features an 800-volt rated voltage and is engineered for
long service life. The motor's constant power density has been optimized to
ensure a compact design and seamless integration into electric rigid axles.
Automotive traction motors are instrumental in propelling
the shift towards electric vehicles, offering increased efficiency, zero
emissions, and a smoother driving experience. As technological advancements
continue and government policies further support the development and adoption
of electric vehicles, automotive traction motors will play an increasingly
vital role in shaping the future of transportation, contributing to a greener
and more sustainable world.