Engineering services company ABB India has plans to invest over ₹140 crore to expand and modernise its Low Voltage (LV) motors manufacturing facility in India. This investment comes alongside the launch of IE5 ultra-premium efficiency motors, further cementing India’s key role as a hub for global innovation and technological excellence.
“Our strategic investment is not just about building capacity, it’s about reinforcing our long-term vision for India as a key global manufacturing hub,” said Stefan Floeck, President – IEC Low Voltage Motors, ABB.
The company has also launched rare-earth-free IE5 Motors for Industrial Applications. The motor has power ratings ranging from 45 kW to 1000 kW, operates on both Direct-On-Line (DOL) and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) systems. In April 2025, China imposed stringent export restrictions on seven rare earth elements and magnets used in defense, energy, and automotive sectors, creating significant supply chain disruptions worldwide.
This crisis particularly impacted motor manufacturing, as rare earth elements like neodymium and dysprosium are traditionally essential for high-efficiency permanent magnet motors. The shortage threatened production timelines and cost structures across multiple industries, from automotive to renewable energy.
“These motors combine the reliability of proven induction technology with ultra-premium efficiency – without relying on rare-earth metals, said Sanjeev Arora, President – Motion Business & IEC Low Voltage Motors, ABB India.
Published on September 25, 2025
