The rapid expansion of India’s electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly in the two- and three-wheeler segments, has prompted Japanese Tier-1 supplier Musashi Auto Parts India (MAP-ID) to diversify into EV components. A leading supplier of transmission gears and differential assemblies for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, MAP-ID is shifting its focus to address the increasing demand from the electric two- and three-wheeler markets, which have seen record sales in 2024.
In June this year, MAP-ID began large-scale production of e-axles for electric two-wheelers at its Bengaluru facility. This initiative is part of a joint venture, Musashi Delta e-Axle India, established in collaboration with Netherlands-based Delta Electronics and Japan’s Toyota Tsusho.
MAP-ID currently supplies its e-axles to two major clients: Coimbatore-based BNC Motors and Bengaluru’s Emobi. BNC integrates the e-axles into its Perfetto e-scooter for personal mobility, while Emobi uses them for last-mile delivery vehicles.
The Bengaluru plant has an annual production capacity of 100,000 e-axles, with plans to double this by 2026, aligning with market trends. By 2030, MAP-ID aims to scale production to one million units annually, supporting India’s goal of electrifying 80% of its two-wheeler market by the end of the decade.
Naoya Nishimura, CEO of MAP-ID, emphasized the company’s strategy to align production capabilities with market demands. He noted that while ICE two-wheelers will remain relevant in the premium motorcycle segment, the sub-100cc category is expected to transition to EVs rapidly.
MAP-ID also aims to establish itself as a comprehensive EV systems provider. Its locally-produced e-axle integrates a gearbox, e-motor, and electric drive unit into a compact, lightweight module, reflecting the company’s focus on high-value, innovative EV components.
Currently, two-wheelers account for 60-70% of MAP-ID’s business, with major clients including Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, Suzuki Motorcycle India, and Yamaha Motor India. In the passenger vehicle sector, its key customers include Maruti Suzuki, Honda Cars India, and Toyota Kirloskar Motor. The move into EV components is part of MAP-ID’s broader strategy to enhance its portfolio and capture growing market opportunities in the EV space.
Musashi Auto Parts is a globally recognized leader in the manufacturing of precision components and systems for the automotive industry. Headquartered in Japan, the company specializes in producing high-quality drivetrain and powertrain parts, including transmission gears, differential assemblies, and engine components. With a strong emphasis on innovation and advanced manufacturing technologies, Musashi Auto Parts is committed to delivering superior performance, reliability, and efficiency in its products. The company has a robust global footprint, with manufacturing facilities and R&D centers strategically located to serve major automotive markets. Focused on sustainability and excellence, Musashi Auto Parts continues to drive the future of mobility by supporting the evolving needs of the automotive sector.
