Mercedes-Benz has commenced large-scale production of its new axial flux electric motor at its Berlin-Marienfelde plant. The new motor will make its production-vehicle debut in the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe.

In contrast to conventional radial flux motors, the electromagnetic flux in an axial flux motor runs parallel to the axis of rotation. The key components are arranged in a disc-shaped layout: two rotors sandwich the stator from the left and right. This design enables a compact motor architecture, high power and torque density and more flexibility in drivetrain packaging.

MORE: A closer look at axial flux motors

The Mercedes axial flux motor is based on a prototype developed by British motor specialist YASA, which became a subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz in 2021. Bringing it into production required Mercedes to develop several innovative high-precision production processes.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe will use three axial flux motors: one on the front axle that’s only 9 centimeters wide, and two on the rear axle, each 8 centimeters in width. Mercedes’s High Performance Electric Drive Unit combines the motors with a compact planetary gearbox in a single housing.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is an all-electric performance model that boasts 860 kW total power, acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 2.1 seconds and a top speed of up to 300 km/h. Range is estimated (on the WLTP testing cycle) at a bladder-busting 696 km (432 miles).

“At the start of large-scale production of the axial flux motor in Berlin-Marienfelde, we are bringing a new innovation for electromobility into industrial reality,” said Mercedes-Benz Group Board Member Michael Schiebe. “We are sending a signal of technological development, operational execution and the transformation of the automotive industry in Germany.”

“Mastering the demanding axial flux technology is a major opportunity for the German and European automotive industry,” said Patrick Schnieder, German Federal Minister for Transport. “This electric motor helps establish a foothold in the premium segment. The start of production of the axial flux motor in Berlin-Marienfelde sends a signal about Germany’s strength as an industrial location.”

Source: Mercedes-AMG