YASA, a pioneer in next-generation electric drive technology, has smashed its own unofficial power density world record with a new benchmark for ultra-high-performance electric motors.
Earlier this summer, YASA achieved 550 kW (738 bhp) from a 13.1 kg version of its axial flux prototype motor, giving it an unofficial power density world record of 42 kW/kg. In the latest testing, an even lighter 12.7 kg version of the same motor has significantly exceeded this performance.
The new prototype achieves a staggering 750 kW (>1000 bhp) short-term peak rating, representing a new unofficial world record of 59 kW/kg, which is roughly a 40% increase over the previous benchmark. While peak power grabs headlines, YASA emphasizes that continuous power—critical for real-world applications—is estimated to be in the range of 350–400 kW (469–536 bhp), ensuring the motor is not just a record-setter but a practical, high-performance solution.
Axial Flux Design Drives Innovation
Designed and developed at YASA’s high-tech Oxford Innovation Centre, this breakthrough is a major validation of the company’s axial flux motor technology. Unlike conventional radial flux motors, axial flux motors offer a flatter, disc-like structure, which allows for a higher power-to-weight ratio, improved cooling, and reduced material usage. Crucially, this motor uses no exotic or rare materials, achieving its performance through precision engineering, advanced thermal management, and optimized packaging.
“On behalf of the entire YASA team, I’m proud and excited to so quickly follow up on the already remarkable results of our initial testing with this incredible result,” said Tim Woolmer, Founder and CTO of YASA.
“To achieve a 750 kW short-term peak rating and a density of 59 kW/kg is a major validation of our next-generation axial flux technology. It’s proof of what focused engineering innovation can achieve. And this isn’t a concept on a screen — it’s running, right now, on the dynos. We’ve built an electric motor that’s significantly more power-dense than anything before it – all with scalable materials and processes. This motor will bring game-changing technology to the high-performance automotive sector.”
Prototype Validation and Testing
YASA’s engineering team is rigorously testing the motor to validate its performance under real-world conditions. Continuous power delivery, thermal stability, and mechanical durability are all under evaluation to ensure that the motor can sustain its output in demanding applications such as high-performance sports cars, electric racing, and heavy-duty automotive sectors.
“The early results are extremely encouraging,” said Simon Odling, Chief of New Technology at YASA.
“The motor’s performance on the dyno has exceeded even our most optimistic simulations. As well as its incredible peak power and overall power density, we estimate this new motor will be able to deliver all-important continuous power in the region of 350–400 kW. This is real hardware, in real life, delivering real data – and it’s performing beautifully.”
Impact on the Electric Vehicle Sector
This development positions YASA as a leading innovator in the field of electric propulsion. With three times the performance density of today’s leading radial flux motors, YASA’s axial flux technology promises lighter, more compact, and more efficient drivetrains. This has far-reaching implications for electric sports cars, hypercars, and even aerospace and marine electric propulsion systems, where weight and space are critical constraints.
“This record demonstrates what makes YASA unique,” said Joerg Miska, CEO of YASA.
“YASA continues to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in electric motor design – turning pure innovation into tangible engineering progress. Our technology is delivering measurable results today, while paving the way for a new generation of lightweight, efficient electric propulsion systems.”
Collaboration and Industry Support
The prototype motor has been developed with the support of the Advanced Propulsion Centre (UK), which promotes the development of cutting-edge propulsion technologies. The collaboration underscores the growing importance of axial flux technology in next-generation EVs, highlighting its potential for high-performance and high-efficiency applications.
Looking Ahead
YASA’s motor represents a significant leap forward in electric motor technology, combining record-breaking power density, practical continuous power, and scalability. With continued testing and refinement, the motor could be a game-changer for high-performance electric vehicles, enabling lighter vehicles, longer ranges, and faster acceleration without resorting to exotic materials or complex designs.
The YASA team continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, demonstrating that innovation in electric motors isn’t just about raw power—it’s about creating practical, efficient, and scalable solutions for the future of mobility.