The BMW Startup Garage has joined forces with Munich-based DeepDrive to advance a groundbreaking electric motor featuring dual rotor technology. This innovative concept promises super-efficient, high-performance drives with extended range capabilities. Following a successful pilot project, the BMW Group and DeepDrive are preparing for their first real-world field test, marking a significant step in the evolution of electric vehicle technology.
DeepDrive’s novel approach combines two electric motors into a single, highly compact unit, significantly enhancing energy efficiency and torque density. Unlike traditional electric motors, where the stator drives either an internal or external rotor, DeepDrive’s dual rotor system drives both rotors simultaneously. This design enables both an in-wheel drive system—where each wheel hub is powered by its own motor—and a traditional centralised drive system, where a central motor block drives the vehicle.
Karol Virsik, Head of Research Vehicle Concepts and Technologies at BMW Group, praised the innovation: “DeepDrive’s prototype parts have notably exceeded our expectations. This level of performance is exceptional for such an early stage and with a new technology.” The success of the test rig trials has paved the way for road testing, where various versions of the new drive will be installed in BMW Group models to assess their real-world performance.
The compact and lightweight nature of DeepDrive’s motors promises to make them highly energy-efficient and cost-effective, offering potential advantages for a broad range of vehicle models. “DeepDrive has developed a compelling vision for the electric drive of the future,” said Virsik. “The BMW Startup Garage provides an ideal platform for experimenting with DeepDrive’s technology and exploring future drive concepts.”
DeepDrive, which has also collaborated with major suppliers such as Continental, was honored with the German Innovation Award in 2024. Felix Pörnbacher, co-founder and co-CEO of DeepDrive, highlighted the impact of the partnership with BMW: “Collaborating with BMW has provided us with a significant advantage early on. It has helped us navigate the complexities of the automotive industry and meet stringent standards. Our next goal is to integrate this technology into a production model.”
The BMW Startup Garage, established in 2015, operates as a venture client to accelerate innovation by incorporating breakthrough technologies developed by startups. “Startups bring fresh perspectives and unconventional thinking,” said Virsik. “Working with them through the BMW Startup Garage allows us to harness their innovations and integrate them into our future vehicle technologies.”
As BMW and DeepDrive move forward with their field tests, this partnership underscores BMW’s commitment to driving forward the future of electric mobility and enhancing the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles.
