Hyundai Mobis Unveils 160 kW EV Powertrain

May 10, 2026

Hyundai Mobis is accelerating its electrification strategy with the development of a new 160-kilowatt (kW) Power Electric (PE) system designed for mainstream electric vehicles.

The move marks a significant step in building a full-spectrum EV powertrain lineup, complementing its previously introduced 250 kW high-performance system and an upcoming 120 kW unit aimed at compact mobility.

A Scalable Approach to EV Powertrains

The newly developed 160 kW PE system is engineered as a standardized, modular solution. Unlike traditional approaches—where automakers often rely on multiple suppliers to develop separate components—Hyundai Mobis has brought design and integration fully in-house. This allows the company to streamline development while improving efficiency and scalability.

At its core, the PE system combines three essential elements: the electric motor, inverter, and reduction gear. Together, they function as the electric equivalent of an internal combustion engine powertrain.

By standardizing key components such as the stator, inverter, and power modules, Hyundai Mobis enables a platform-based strategy. This means the same system architecture can be adapted across multiple vehicle models, reducing development time and supporting faster mass production as EV demand continues to grow.

Improved Efficiency and Compact Design

Despite being a general-purpose system, the 160 kW unit delivers notable performance gains. Specific power—measured as output per unit weight—has increased by approximately 16%, while overall system volume has been reduced by nearly 20%.

These improvements are driven by advanced engineering, including enhanced cooling technology within the motor and the use of high-efficiency power semiconductors in the power module. The result is a more compact, lighter, and energy-efficient drivetrain suitable for a wide range of electric vehicles.

With an output equivalent to around 215 horsepower, the system is well-suited for most EVs currently in production. For higher performance applications, dual-motor configurations can be deployed, effectively doubling total output.

Expanding From Components to Complete Powertrains

Historically, Hyundai Mobis has focused on supplying EV components such as battery systems to global automakers. The introduction of proprietary PE systems signals a shift toward offering complete powertrain solutions.

This transition not only broadens the company’s electrification portfolio but also enhances profitability by integrating both design and mass production capabilities. Early interest from overseas customers suggests strong market potential for these new systems.

Completing the EV Lineup

The 160 kW system sits at the center of Hyundai Mobis’ expanding PE portfolio. The 250 kW system targets high-performance vehicles with advanced cooling and torque capabilities, while the upcoming 120 kW version is optimized for smaller, cost-sensitive vehicles—particularly in emerging markets.

Once complete, this lineup will allow Hyundai Mobis to address the full spectrum of EV segments, from compact urban mobility solutions to high-performance electric cars.

Blagojce Krivevski