Downsizing and multiple use of drive motors to improve their efficiency has been proposed.

At the CTI Symposium (technical symposium) held in Berlin, Germany, from 5-7 December 2022, a number of movements proposed downsizing and multiple use of drive motors as one of the methodologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs of electrification.

In HEVs/PHEVs, motors in the 80-100 kW class are mainly used in the volume zone, while in BEVs, the output of drive motors for the volume zone (or mainstream) is 100-150 kW, and those for performance is over 150 kW. However, in the motor industry, which considers costs on a weight basis, the recent supply chain electromagnetic steel sheet shortage problem caused by the new coronavirus (COVID-19) and other issues have made it necessary not only to improve efficiency in development, including the production of drive motors, but also to improve the torque shortage problem in the high-speed range, which is actually an issue for BEVs. In addition to improving the torque shortage problem in the high-speed range, we are also proposing technologies to reduce the weight of drive motors on a vehicle mounting basis and to address iron loss, heat loss, NVH, etc. The report covers the motor industry in general, including technology trends and forecasts by application, as well as the balance of power (competitive situation) in the motor industry.

Of the several core components required for electrification in the global automotive industry, the industry’s focus on drive motors is increasing. In the past, we have been working on surveys of component manufacturers, mainly in the Tier 1 industry, but the scope of all surveys has been limited to the module (eAxle), motor or inverter assembly level. Recently, however, there have been requests for more detailed information on some of the components for which competition is expected to intensify in the future, in addition to information on the industry for Tier 2 and lower suppliers and related components that make up the eAxle and motor. The main players and their balance of power (market share) in the

The drive motor industry and related component industries were surveyed and analysed to gain an overall picture and an understanding of the major key players in each component field, and to analyse points of interest for future trends. Based on interviews with industry players, etc., this report details the challenges and future direction of the industry.