Nidec Magnet-Free E-Axle Targets 2028 Commercialization

Nidec Magnet-Free E-Axle Development Targets Future EV Applications

Nidec Corporation is advancing the Nidec magnet-free e-axle project with plans for commercialization in 2028. The company announced that its e-axle business is a target area for structural reform and transformation under its five-year plan, while continuing development activities focused on future mass production. The magnet-free system has been under development since fiscal 2022 with support from the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), aiming to address future electric vehicle powertrain requirements.

The fifth-generation e-axle currently being developed by Nidec Corporation incorporates a redundant inverter system and a motor core using an amorphous alloy material instead of conventional electrical steel sheets. This technology reduces iron loss and enables high-performance operation without permanent magnets. The system achieves a rotational speed of 30,000 rpm, demonstrating the potential of magnet-free solutions for next-generation electric vehicle platforms.

Vehicle Evaluation Phase Begins Before Planned Mass Adoption

The core technologies for the magnet-free e-axle have already been completed, and the project is moving into the vehicle evaluation phase during the current fiscal year. This stage will focus on refining system details and improving practical application readiness. Japan and European automotive markets are expected to be key focus areas because manufacturers are increasingly considering magnet-free technologies due to economic security concerns and supply chain considerations.

Nidec plans to target adoption of this advanced e-axle system around 2030 while continuing discussions with vehicle manufacturers. The technology could support future passenger car electrification strategies by reducing dependency on rare-earth magnets while maintaining high rotational performance. The development reflects broader industry efforts toward alternative motor technologies that improve resource security, efficiency, and flexibility in electric vehicle powertrain designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nidec magnet-free e-axle technology?
Nidec magnet-free e-axle technology is an electric vehicle drive system designed without permanent magnets while maintaining high-speed performance through advanced motor core materials and inverter technology. The system uses an amorphous alloy motor core to reduce iron loss and supports rotational speeds of 30,000 rpm. Nidec plans commercialization in 2028, with potential vehicle adoption around 2030. The technology aims to provide automakers with a resource-efficient alternative for future electric mobility applications.