DeepDrive Press Release
2024 / 08 / 06
 

The Comeback of the Range Extender: DeepDrive Presents Dual Rotor,Radial-Flux Generator with High Torque Density

Munich, August 6, 2025 Responding to strong demand from OEMs, DeepDrive – a technology leader in high-efficiency electric drives – is launching a new solution: the Dual Rotor,Radial-Flux Generator, purpose-built for modern range extender applications and designed to deliver exceptionally high torque density.

What was once considered a transitional technology is now experiencing a renaissance. Automakers such as Li Auto, BYD, and Nissan with its ePower system are reintroducing the concept of range extenders – but this time on fully electric platforms, selectively supplemented by compact combustion modules. Instead of hybridising combustion platforms, the new approach starts with simple EV architectures, then extends them with modular range extender systems. This trend – driven by demand in markets with unstable charging infrastructure such as China, India, and the U.S. – has created a clear market pull for DeepDrive’s innovation.

“More and more manufacturers are looking for scalable transition solutions,” says Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rosen, Chief Engineer at DeepDrive. “What began as exploratory discussions has developed into a clear market signal – and we are proud to deliver a solution that convinces both technically and economically.”

At the heart of the innovation is DeepDrive’s patented Dual-Rotor Radial Flux machine. Its compact design, high efficiency, and robust continuous performance enable direct coupling to the crankshaft of the combustion engine – eliminating gearbox losses entirely. The machine is designed for continuous torque levels of 200–300 Nm at 3,000–6,000 rpm, while also integrating functions such as engine start and vibration damping. Thanks to proprietary winding technologies, DeepDrive achieves unprecedented torque density with minimal material use – resulting in a compact, lightweight, and cost-efficient system that integrates seamlessly into new vehicle architectures.

The new solution expands DeepDrive’s product portfolio, which currently includes three highly integrated electric drive systems:

In-Wheel Drive: fully validated, already deployed in co-development projects

Central Drive: successfully tested with industry-leading efficiency

Range Extender Generator: newest product, designed for high-volume production

Premiere at IAA 2025

The new range extender system will make its public debut at IAA Mobility 2025, Hall A1, Booth C23. In addition to the generator, DeepDrive will showcase its In-Wheel and Central Drive solutions, along with a Tech Explosion offering deep insights into the machine concept.

About DeepDrive

DeepDrive, a Munich-based high-tech company, is set to become the category leader in electric motors for the automotive industry and beyond. Addressing the most pressing challenges of today’s electric vehicles (EVs), the company’s patented Dual Rotor motor topology does not only enable high-volume
EVs with >800 km of range but also can save automakersmore than €1 billion in costs when deployed at scale. Additionally, it enables EVs to significantly reduce carbon emissions, potentially saving multiple gigatonnes of CO2 emissions over the EV fleet’s lifetime. Versatile in design, DeepDrive’s technology can be seamlessly integrated into the wheels or employed as a traditional central drive.
Founded by a team of visionaries with extensive experience in large-scale series projects, DeepDrive has gained significant recognition within the industry and is currently working with 8 of the top 10 automakers on first series applications. Supported by leading automotive and financial investors, including Volkswagen-backed US-VC Leitmotif, BMW i Ventures, Continental’s Corporate Venture Capital
Unit, UVC Partners, and Bayern Kapital, DeepDrive is accelerating its momentum. Dr. Peter Mertens, former board member and CTO of Audi and Volvo, and Jonas Rieke, COO of Personio, further contribute to DeepDrive’s
growth.