(March 23, 2023) MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.  —  BMW i Ventures HAHAS announced a co-lead investment in the $16.1 million Series A round for startup DeepDrive. DeepDrive has developed a cost and resource efficient dual-rotor motor, extending the range of electric vehicles. Other investors include UVC Partners, Bayern Kapital with Wachstumsfonds Bayern, and Continental’s Corporate Venture Capital Unit. The company is also backed by renowned automotive manager Dr. Peter Mertens.

The radial flux dual-rotor electric motor includes power electronics and can be installed in any vehicle as a central drive or as an in-wheel drive. The patented technology increases the range of vehicles, achieves high torque density, is cost-efficient to manufacture and requires fewer natural resources; in turn, reducing environmental impact.          

"With its patented and unique e-motor architecture, DeepDrive could set new standards for e-mobility,” said Marcus Behrendt, managing director at BMW i Ventures. “The highly efficient e-motors offer major advantages in terms of weight, cost and space. They enable the next generation of efficient and resource-saving electric vehicles. DeepDrive's e-motor technology is designed for easy and cost-effective mass production. We are pleased that our involvement can help this new technology achieve a breakthrough."   

The DeepDrive team is working with eight of the top ten OEMs and is on track to bring its technology to production by 2026. Co-founder and CEO Felix Pörnbacher said: "We believe our technology will revolutionize vehicle electrification. With our dual-rotor technology, we are significantly more cost-effective and efficient on the road, shaping tomorrow's electromobility. The demand for our development shows that we are on the right track. We would like to thank BMW i Ventures, Continental's corporate venture capital unit, and the other investors for their confidence."

With the fresh capital, the company plans to start manufacturing its motors, increase its headcount to respond to the high demand from OEM customers and win first series commitments.