Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Permanent Magnet Motors
The Permanent Magnet Motor market is being reshaped by a combination of rapid technology adoption, tighter regulations and evolving consumer expectations of efficiency and sustainability. In this new environment, the leading players, including the original equipment manufacturers, IT systems integrators and system operators, are deploying advanced technology such as IoT and AI to improve performance and reduce costs. Meanwhile, a new generation of green-tech companies are challenging the traditional model with new solutions that put the environment first. As regional markets continue to grow at different rates, strategic deployments in 2024–25 are likely to be increasingly focused on electrification and the integration of automation. In this highly dynamic landscape, it is vital for C-levels and strategic planners to keep their finger on the pulse, to ensure that their competitive positioning and technology investment remain on track to capture the growing opportunities.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors provide comprehensive solutions integrating permanent magnet motors with advanced control systems and automation technologies.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Siemens |
Strong automation and control integration |
Industrial automation and motor solutions |
Global |
| Bosch |
Innovative engineering and manufacturing |
Automotive and industrial applications |
Europe, North America, Asia |
| ABB |
Leading in electrification and automation |
Power and automation technologies |
Global |
| Rockwell Automation |
Focus on industrial digital transformation |
Automation and information solutions |
North America, Europe |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche technologies and innovations in permanent magnet motors, often leading in specific applications.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Maxon Motor |
Precision and high-performance motors |
Small and micro motors |
Global |
| Johnson Electric |
Expertise in motion solutions |
Small motors and actuators |
Asia, Europe, North America |
| Regal Beloit |
Diverse motor solutions portfolio |
Electric motors and drives |
North America, Europe |
| Nidec |
Broad range of motor technologies |
Electric motors and components |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply the necessary infrastructure and equipment to support the deployment and integration of permanent magnet motors.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Mitsubishi Electric |
Strong in automation and energy solutions |
Industrial and commercial applications |
Asia, North America, Europe |
| Emerson Electric |
Focus on process automation and efficiency |
Automation solutions and services |
Global |
| Parker Hannifin |
Expertise in motion and control technologies |
Motion control and fluid systems |
Global |
| General Electric |
Diverse industrial solutions and innovation |
Energy and industrial systems |
Global |
| Danaher |
Strong focus on innovation and technology |
Life sciences and diagnostics |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Nidec (Japan): High-efficiency permanent magnet motors for automobiles and industrial applications. Recently secured a contract with a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles, competing with established suppliers like Siemens on the basis of price and technology.
- Maxon Motor AG (Switzerland): Focuses on precision motors and drive systems, recently implemented a project for a robotics company, complementing established players by providing specialized solutions for niche applications in automation.
- Leroy-Somer (France): A manufacturer of a range of permanent-magnet motors for use in the field of new energy. Recently teamed up with a manufacturer of windmills, establishing itself as a regional champion in the green energy field, competing with bigger companies such as ABB.
- Yaskawa Electric of Japan, renowned for its servomotors and drives, has recently extended its range of permanent-magnet motors for factory automation, and is challenging the industry's established suppliers by integrating AI and IoT into its offerings.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the permanent-magnet motor market in Asia-Pacific will see a significant increase, driven by the rapid growth of the electric car and the wind farm. Europe will be driven by specialization in automation and robots, and North America will focus on energy conservation and emissions reduction. The specialization of the technology will be focused on integrating smart technology and the Internet of Things into motor systems.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- The Japanese company Nidec and the German firm Siemens have joined forces to develop high-efficiency permanent-magnet motors, which are to be used in industry, and thus to strengthen their position in the growing field of green technology.
- General Electric has bought a minority share in a company specialising in advanced permanent-magnet materials, to strengthen its R&D capacity and accelerate the development of electric-car motors, thus strengthening its position in the car industry.
- Mitsubishi Electric and Toyota Motor have decided to combine their respective strengths in the field of motors and electric machines and to enter the field of electric vehicles.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Efficiency |
Siemens, General Electric |
In its permanent magnet motors, Siemens has made use of the most advanced calculation methods to achieve a high degree of efficiency—up to 98% in some industrial applications. The power density and efficiency of GE’s motors make them ideally suited to the generation of green energy. |
| Customization |
ABB, Nidec |
ABB offers a wide range of permanent magnet motors, which can be tailored to suit the needs of individual industries and ensure optimum performance in various applications. Nidec provides motors which are tailor-made to suit the performance and size requirements of individual vehicles. |
| Integration with IoT |
Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric |
Rockwell Automation has integrated IoT functionality into its permanent magnet motors, enabling remote monitoring and condition-based maintenance. Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure platform enables the integration of these motors into smart factories. |
| Sustainability |
Mitsubishi Electric, Yaskawa Electric |
Mitsubishi Electric has been working on a reduction of CO2 emissions in the manufacture of its electric motors. Yaskawa Electric puts a high priority on the use of re-usable materials in its motors, in line with its commitment to the world’s sustainable development. |
| Performance in Harsh Environments |
Baldor Electric, Emerson Electric |
Permanent magnet motors are made for maximum strength and for use in the most extreme conditions. They are particularly suited for mining and oil and gas applications. These are powerful, reliable motors that can operate in high temperatures and corrosive environments. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Competitive Landscape Ahead
The Permanent-Magnet Motors Market in 2023 is characterized by a highly fragmented and highly competitive structure, with both established and new entrants vying for market share. A number of factors are influencing the market: a growing focus on energy efficiency and a drive to implement sustainable practices are driving the market. The market is characterized by the presence of a large number of players, some of which are very old, which are mainly based on their brand, while others, such as new entrants, rely on advanced technology such as artificial intelligence and automation to differentiate themselves. In the future, the ability to integrate sustainable practices, to remain flexible and to use automation to its fullest extent will be the key to market leadership. Strategically, it will be important for the suppliers to position themselves strategically to take advantage of these capabilities and to remain competitive in an increasingly complex market.
