Munich-based electric‑motor supplier DeepDrive has announced an official expansion into the robotics market, saying it will adapt its dual‑rotor motor architecture for robotic actuators and joint modules. The step — declared in a company press release dated 20 October 2026 — matters for drivers, dealers and employees across Germany and Austria because it signals another automotive supplier broadening revenue streams into industrial automation, potentially shifting production lines, hiring needs and local supply contracts.
From wheel hubs to robot joints
DeepDrive’s statement explains the technical rationale: its Dual Rotor, Radial Flux motor — already developed for generator, in‑wheel and central drive applications — offers high torque density at comparatively low cost and weight, attributes robotics manufacturers prize for compact, powerful actuators. The press release (Munich, 20 October 2026) quotes Co‑CEO Felix Poernbacher: “Building the standard electric drive for automotive and beyond has been our goal since we started DeepDrive.”
The company says it has produced initial actuator samples and received inbound interest from robotics firms worldwide; staff posts on DeepDrive’s LinkedIn account add that the startup now has a team of more than 100 people and is launching a global expansion including a first presence in China — moves the company frames as industrialisation and scaling rather than a one‑off pilot.
Why automotive suppliers are branching out now
Suppliers such as DeepDrive point to three drivers for diversification: slower European vehicle demand and long development cycles for mass EV programmes; rapid, high‑margin growth in robotics, automation and equipment markets; and the advantage of re‑using proven, high‑volume manufacturing processes for adjacent products. DeepDrive’s executives and advisors told the press they believe the company’s automotive‑grade quality and cost base give it an edge over smaller robotics startups.
