Volkswagen celebrates producing 5 million electric drive units, including the powerful APP550 delivering up to 560 Nm torque in popular EV models.
Volkswagen Reaches a Major Milestone with 5 Million Electric Drive Units Produced
The Volkswagen Group has achieved a significant production milestone, manufacturing five million electric drive units across four key facilities. Central to this success is the Kassel plant in Germany, with substantial contributions from the Zwickau and Gyor factories.
APP550: Powering Volkswagen’s Electric Vehicles
The APP550 electric drive unit stands out as a core component in Volkswagen’s EV lineup. Featuring a pump-less combined oil and water cooling system, it ensures enhanced efficiency, higher power output, and robust torque. This design uses gear wheels to circulate oil, while oil catchers prevent dry-start wear after long idle periods.
Designed for efficiency, strong torque, and future growth, the APP550 supports 800-volt architectures. Its naming reflects Volkswagen’s internal coding: 'A' denotes axle-parallel orientation, 'P' stands for permanent magnet, and the second 'P' indicates passenger vehicle use. The number '550' refers to the peak torque rating—560 Newton-meters (413 pound-feet).
This drive unit powers various MEB platform-based models like the ID.3 hatchback, ID.4 crossover, ID.5 coupe crossover, ID.7 sedan and tourer, and the ID. Buzz minivan. It is also fitted in Škoda models such as the Enyaq twins, Elroq, Tavascan, and Born.
Looking ahead, Volkswagen plans to introduce its own pulse inverter in battery-electric vehicles built on the MEB Entry platform. This platform will support models including the ID. Polo, Epiq, and Raval. The new inverter will be paired with the APP290 electric motor, offering power outputs from 85 kW (114 hp) to 166 kW (223 hp) and a maximum voltage of 400 volts.