Reusing e-powertrain components beyond the Automotive realm
23/01/2024
Can e-powertrain components (with the exception of the battery) find a new life beyond the confines of the automotive industry? At SuP, we recently delved into this intriguing question.
Our investigation addressed the lifetime extension of e-motors, inverters and other power electronics for automotive applications in other areas such as energy storage, construction machinery, etc. Just think of the BMW i3 battery packs that power electric motorboats and energy storage. Is there a similar opportunity for other e-components?
Insights from industry leaders, including Tier 1 and OEMs, revealed a challenging landscape. Direct integration into other sectors requires significant modifications due to complex requirements, feasibility concerns, safety standards, regulatory complexities, integration challenges, and relatively subdued demand. The industry therefore generally uses customized components tailored to the specific electrification requirements of each application - but does not directly reuse EV parts.
Yet, a promising market for remanufacturing of e-components within the established aftermarket is emerging on the horizon. In addition, the reuse of subcomponents – rather in a sense of recycling - is becoming increasingly important. For example the usage of recycled magnets and rare earths for certain e-components underlines a sustainable approach.Alternatively, the industry can consider designing e-components for multiple application areas already in the development process. However, the prospects seem limited due to product and manufacturing requirements.Do you share this perspective, or do you have a divergent viewpoint? Let's engage in a discussion and unravel the complexities together.Udita Chauhan
Senior Consultant Mobility and Transportation
Phone +49 6201 9915 69
Mail: Udita.Chauhan@schlegelundpartner.de
Insights from industry leaders, including Tier 1 and OEMs, revealed a challenging landscape. Direct integration into other sectors requires significant modifications due to complex requirements, feasibility concerns, safety standards, regulatory complexities, integration challenges, and relatively subdued demand. The industry therefore generally uses customized components tailored to the specific electrification requirements of each application - but does not directly reuse EV parts.
Yet, a promising market for remanufacturing of e-components within the established aftermarket is emerging on the horizon. In addition, the reuse of subcomponents – rather in a sense of recycling - is becoming increasingly important. For example the usage of recycled magnets and rare earths for certain e-components underlines a sustainable approach.Alternatively, the industry can consider designing e-components for multiple application areas already in the development process. However, the prospects seem limited due to product and manufacturing requirements.Do you share this perspective, or do you have a divergent viewpoint? Let's engage in a discussion and unravel the complexities together.Udita Chauhan
Senior Consultant Mobility and Transportation
Phone +49 6201 9915 69
Mail: Udita.Chauhan@schlegelundpartner.de