Mercedes Begins Series Production of Axial Flux Electric Motors for AMG Brand
Launch of Axial Flux Electric Motor Production for AMG Vehicles
BERLIN, June 9 (Reuters) - Mercedes-Benz on Tuesday launched series production of a new light-weight electric motor for the next generation of its luxury AMG vehicles, taking a step closer towards resolving the challenge of electrifying high-performance cars.
Production Details and Facility
Production of the technology, known as an axial flux motor, will take place at Mercedes' oldest plant in Berlin-Marienfelde, now serving as the competence centre for high-performance electric motors, the company said in a statement. The axial flux electric motor is to debut in the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door coupe.
Official Statement from Mercedes
"With the launch of mass production of the axial flux motor in Berlin-Marienfelde, we are turning a groundbreaking innovation for electric mobility into industrial reality," Mercedes production chief Michael Schiebe said.
Axial Flux Motor Technology Explained
Axial flux electric motors are flat, round devices - dubbed "pancakes" - that are lighter and more efficient than conventional cylindrical "radial flux" motors, or "sausages."
Challenges in Electrifying High-Performance Vehicles
Batteries are heavy and electric motors can overheat if driven too hard, posing problems for carmakers seeking to electrify their highest-performance vehicles.
Strategic Acquisition to Boost Innovation
Mercedes brought in outside help in 2021 when it acquired Oxford-based electric motor company YASA.
(Reporting by Rachel More, Editing by Friederike Heine)
