The Mercedes-Benz Group consolidates its leadership in automotive innovation with the incorporation of axial flow electric motors in its future high-performance models, a technology driven by its British subsidiary YASA, acquired in 2021.
These motors, smaller, lighter, and more efficient than traditional radial flow ones, have already been integrated into hybrid models like the Lamborghini Revuelto, and will soon arrive in the electric sports cars by AMG.
What is an axial flow motor and why is it revolutionary?
Unlike radial design—where the magnetic field is perpendicular to the rotation axis—, the axial motor generates the field in a parallel way, allowing:
- Reducing the size and mass of the motor by up to 80%
- Quadrupling the output torque with the same amount of permanent magnets and copper
- Improving the vehicle’s range by 5 to 10%, thanks to higher efficiency
- YASA’s patented topology, with segmented armatures without yoke, simplifies manufacturing and increases power density, also reducing the use of precious metals.
Mercedes begins the transition in its high-end electric vehicles
As reported by JESMB, the first models with this technology will be:
- The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door, in 2026
- An exclusive AMG SUV (also available in coupé version), in 2027
- The AMG versions of future electric compacts based on the MMA platform
All of them will have three motors, two on the rear axle with torque vectoring capability, and one on the front axle for all-wheel drive. An estimated combined power close to 1,000 horsepower is expected, surpassing rivals like the Porsche Taycan.
Industrial innovation: YASA motors assembled by humanoid robots
In parallel to powertrain advancements, Mercedes is transforming its industrial processes. At the Berlin-Marienfelde plant, the Apollo androids by Apptronik, integrating DeepMind’s AI (Google), have been installed. These humanoid robots will collaborate in the assembly of YASA motors, marking a milestone in intelligent automation.
A new paradigm of electric efficiency
Although currently limited to high-end vehicles, the axial motor opens a new technological frontier that optimizes performance without penalizing weight or space. Brands like Renault (with Whylot) are also exploring its use, reflecting a global trend towards more refined, powerful, and efficient electrification.
