Tier 1 suppliers Valeo has announced that based on the successful joint development with a European OEM on the magnet-free electric motor technology (EESM – Externally Excited Synchronous Motor), it is now extending its portfolio of magnet-free electric motors towards upper segment vehicles together with component major Mahle.

The partners have joined forces to develop an innovative magnet-free electric axle system, targeting upper segment electric vehicles with peak power ranging from 220 kW to 350 kW.

The iBEE system (inner Brushless Electrical Excitation), is a cutting-edge technology that aims to revolutionise performance and efficiency of magnet-free electric motors. Valeo and Mahle signed a Joint Development Agreement to combine both Valeo’s expertise in electric motors, highly efficient inverters and associated motor control laws and the expertise of Mahle on magnet-free rotor with its Mahle Contactless Transmitter (MCT) technology.

They are working on an innovative cooling concept in order to achieve an outstanding continuous to peak power ratio. Moreover, the carbon footprint is expected to be reduced by more than 40 percent versus a permanent magnet electric motor of equivalent power. The testing of the first prototypes will be completed by the end of 2024.

Xavier Dupont, Valeo Power Division CEO said, “This cooperation with Mahle is a perfect match. Mahle develops the EESM rotor and their brushless excitation system. Based on our power electronics know-how, Valeo provides a dedicated control of this electric motor and brushless system embedded in our inverter. This partnership allows Valeo to complete its EESM portfolio towards upper segment and is key to support the evolution of the automotive industry towards more innovative sustainable solutions.''

Martin Wellhoeffer, Member of the Mahle Group Management Board said, “In this project two front runners of electrification are joining forces. The new e-axle will benefit from Mahle’s expertise in contactless transmitter technology. Together we will be setting a new benchmark in packaging and efficiency for EESM based e-axles and taking the next step for our customers towards future mobility.”

Valeo's first EESM development is based on cooperation with a European OEM launched in 2022 in order to create a new magnet-free electric motor generation (EESM). The initial targets of the project were double; first to get an all-in-one architecture with a new stator and cooling technology in order to increase by 30 percent the power density compared to the current motors equipping the current OEM’s vehicles on the road. Secondly, to shrink its carbon footprint by 30 percent versus an electric motor equipped with magnets (PMSM). A validation phase for more than 6 months was successfully ended with results level over the initial expectations in terms of power and efficiency especially thanks to Valeo inverter expertise.

The performances match the level of permanent magnet electric motors for B/C segment vehicles with all benefits of a magnet-free technology (no rare earth and lower carbon footprint)

As part of its electrification strategy Mahle has been focusing on developing electric drive systems. Its contactless transmitter technology for magnet-free electric motors is testament to the company’s strong expertise in this field. Thanks to its high maturity level it is a key enabler for the next evolution of EESM-based e-axles.

Avoiding the use of rare earth materials does not only positively contribute to the sustainability of e-mobility, but is also advantageous in terms of costs and resource security. The key feature is the inductive and thus contactless and wear-free power transmission allowing motor operation at benchmark efficiency level.

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Pune-headquartered automotive component supplier Varroc Engineering and French battery system manufacturer Forsee Power have joined forces to produce electric vehicle battery packs in India.

Under the terms of the transaction, Varroc will acquire a 45 percent equity stake in Forsee Power's Indian subsidiary, Forsee Power India and will assume management and operational control of the entity.

Varroc will also subscribe to Optionally Convertible Redeemable Preference Shares to provide growth capital for the joint venture, subject to regulatory and corporate approvals. The joint venture will initially focus on battery pack development for three-wheeled electric vehicles, before expanding into two-wheelers, light commercial vehicles, buses, trucks and industrial equipment.

The agreement combines Forsee Power's battery system architecture and software with Varroc's component manufacturing, engineering infrastructure and vehicle manufacturer supply relationships across domestic assembly operations.

Arjun Jain, Whole Time Director and CEO – Business I, Varroc, said, "Electric mobility is both evolving and growing rapidly, thus creating new opportunities and new requirements for the automotive industry. Through this evolution we believe OEMs will need partners who can anticipate changes and translate them into reliable, cost-effective solutions at scale. Our partnership with Forsee Power brings together complementary strengths in battery-system technology, automotive engineering, manufacturing and customer relationships. It represents an important step in expanding Varroc’s portfolio to address the evolving needs of our market and the future of mobility. This will further enhance addressable content per electric vehicle in all the segment."

Christophe Gurtner, Chairman and CEO, Forsee Power, said, "With the rapid growth of electric mobility adoption in India, the opportunity is clear and we are ready to scale. Joining forces with Varroc combines our battery technology with local industrial strength and customer access. Three-wheelers are our starting point, with a clear ambition to expand across two-wheeler, commercial and industrial vehicles."

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German technology company AUMOVIO will showcase a portfolio of braking, rider assistance and connectivity solutions for motorcycles and powersports vehicles at EICMA 2026 in Milan, scheduled from 3 to 8 November 2026.

The company's showcase centres on the launch of the MK 120 MAB brake system, which extends AUMOVIO's braking product line beyond two-wheeled applications. The system is engineered for three-wheeled scooters, side-by-side vehicles, utility terrain vehicles and all-terrain vehicles.

It integrates vehicle stability functions derived from passenger car and motorcycle architectures, including active yaw control and wheel lift mitigation, to assist vehicle control across varied terrain.

In addition to the MK 120 MAB, AUMOVIO will display its Motorcycle ABS 2.3 Base unit featuring an optional inertial measurement unit, alongside the MiniMAB EVO system designed for small-displacement scooters and commuters.

The company's display also features radar sensors for adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection, digital instrument clusters ranging from 4 to 8.8 inches, a standalone Connected Infotainment Box and automated manual transmission control units.

The hardware, software and electronic systems on display utilise automotive development, cybersecurity and production standards adapted to motorcycle and powersports operational environments.

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Auto component manufacturer Eastman Auto and Power has appointed Rajesh Jindal as Chief Executive Officer.

He comes with over 34 years of corporate experience spanning sales, marketing and product management, following a 24-year tenure at Amara Raja Energy and Mobility, where he most recently served as Chief Marketing Officer for automotive batteries in India.

Jindal holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering alongside a Master of Business Administration qualification. During his career, he has managed distribution networks, channel partner relations and go-to-market strategies within the energy storage and automotive component sectors.

Shekhar Singal, MD, Eastman Auto and Power, said, "With over 34 years of experience, Jindal has garnered experience in sales, marketing and product development and is well-positioned to accelerate Eastman’s growth journey. As he begins this new chapter at Eastman, we look forward to his leadership in deepening our commitment for delivering sustainable value for our customers, partners, employees and stakeholders - advancing the company's long-term growth aspirations and inspiring the organisation to achieve new milestones together."

Established in 2000, Eastman Auto and Power operates across three business verticals: last-mile electric mobility solutions, residential solar storage systems and energy storage solutions.

The company employs over 3,600 personnel across seven manufacturing plants in India, supported by a distribution network of more than 1,200 direct partners and over 400 original equipment manufacturer clients worldwide.

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Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) recently took part in the SAE International Thermal Management Systems Symposium, held on 6–7 October 2026 in Dearborn, Michigan. The event gathered mobility-industry professionals to discuss technologies and emerging challenges in vehicle thermal management. Throughout the two-day symposium, the Kuraray GENESTAR team connected with attendees at Booth #19, sharing insights into high-performance engineering materials.

The team demonstrated how GENESTAR PA9T can meet demanding automotive application requirements. This heat-resistant polyamide engineering plastic was developed by Kuraray using unique monomers, combining low water absorption, high heat resistance, chemical resistance, dimensional precision and excellent moldability. It also offers electrical properties suitable for demanding electrical and electronic applications, including low water absorption, chemical resistance, moldability, insulation performance, thermal resistance and dimensional stability.

These characteristics make GENESTAR relevant for a broad range of electrical, electronic and automotive components. Kuraray lists automotive applications including connectors, relays, insulators and wire harnesses, while GENESTAR materials also serve in sliding, fuel and air-intake systems. The company reports use in automotive gears, bearings, piping and intercooler tanks, and the material is being considered for electric-vehicle applications as well.

The SAE symposium provided a forum for exchanging insights into evolving thermal management technologies. The 2026 programme covered battery and electronics cooling, climate control, alternative refrigerants and vehicle thermal engineering approaches. For Kuraray, participation enabled direct engagement with engineers and industry professionals about how high-performance materials can address increasingly complex automotive design requirements, with GENESTAR PA9T offering a material option where multiple performance demands must be met simultaneously.

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