Musashi Auto Parts India Pvt. Ltd. (MAP-ID), a subsidiary of Japan-based Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd., has commenced mass production of e-axles for electric two-wheelers at its Bengaluru facility, according to a report by Autocar Professional. This marks a significant step in the company’s diversification into electric vehicle (EV) components, targeting India’s rapidly growing EV market, particularly in the two- and three-wheeler segments.
The e-axle, integrating a gearbox and motor into a compact system, is designed to meet the demands for lightweight and efficient drive units in EVs. The initial production target for 2024 is 10,000 units, with plans to scale up to one million units annually by 2030, in line with India’s target to electrify 80% of its two-wheeler market by the same year. The e-axle will be installed in models from Indian EV startups BNC Motors and Emobi.
Strategic Partnerships and Investments
Musashi recently announced a partnership with Log9 Materials, an Indian battery technology company. This collaboration aims to create integrated powertrain solutions by combining Musashi’s e-axle technology with Log9’s lithium-ion battery systems. The partnership focuses on enhancing energy efficiency and performance for two- and three-wheelers, targeting both the Indian and global markets.
Musashi is also part of a joint venture, Musashi Delta e-Axle India, alongside Delta Electronics and Toyota Tsusho, to manufacture and sell e-axles. The Bengaluru facility currently has a production capacity of 100,000 units per annum, with plans to double this by 2026.
Over the next three to five years, Musashi plans to invest approximately $80–90 million to expand its manufacturing capacity and strengthen research and development capabilities in India. By 2030, the company projects a production volume increase of 14% across its Indian plants.
Market Outlook and Goals
Musashi’s diversification into EV components comes as India experiences record growth in electric two- and three-wheeler sales. The company aims to become an end-to-end EV systems supplier by leveraging its expertise in forged and machined automotive components and by developing new technologies for electric mobility.
MAP-ID CEO Naoya Nishimura highlighted the company’s strategy to align production with evolving market demands, emphasizing a focus on both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles to meet diverse consumer needs.
Future Directions
Musashi’s efforts in India reflect its broader goals to contribute to global carbon neutrality and drive innovation in sustainable transportation. With collaborations, capacity expansions, and integrated EV solutions, the company is positioning itself as a significant player in the transformation of the automotive industry.