Valeo and Mahle are pioneering a new frontier in electric vehicle (EV) technology by collaborating on a magnet-free electric axle system. Building on Valeo’s previous success with a European OEM in developing Externally Excited Synchronous Motors (EESM), the partnership aims to extend this innovation to upper-segment vehicles. The new system, iBEE (inner Brushless Electrical Excitation), promises enhanced performance and efficiency, offering peak power between 220 kW and 350 kW. Valeo’s expertise in electric motors and inverters is combined with Mahle’s advanced magnet-free rotor technology and contactless transmitter (MCT), which collectively ensure a significant reduction in carbon footprint—over 40% compared to traditional magnet-based motors. The first prototypes of this advanced system are expected to be tested by the end of 2024.
Both companies emphasize the importance of this collaboration in shaping the future of electric mobility. Xavier Dupont, CEO of Valeo’s Power Division, highlighted the complementary nature of the partnership, particularly in leveraging their combined expertise to push the boundaries of sustainable automotive solutions. Mahle’s Martin Wellhoeffer also noted that the new e-axle system, with its contactless transmission technology, would set new benchmarks in efficiency and design for EESM-based e-axles. This partnership follows Valeo’s earlier project, where a joint effort resulted in a 30% improvement in power density and carbon footprint reduction for the B/C vehicle segment, demonstrating the feasibility of magnet-free technology as a viable alternative to permanent magnet motors.
