Germany’s New Invention Could Replace the Combustion Engine Forever

Mercedes-Benz has begun large-scale production of an electric axial-flux motor at its Berlin-Marienfelde factory. The compact “pancake” motor is set to debut in the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, where three motors will power the high-performance EV. In this video, we explain how axial-flux motors differ from the cylindrical radial-flux motors used in many electric cars, why power density matters, and what it takes to manufacture this design at scale. We also look at the limits of the headline: this is a promising electric-drive technology, not a single invention that instantly makes every combustion engine obsolete. The real test will be performance under repeated use, heat management, durability, production cost, and whether the design can move beyond premium performance cars. Batteries, charging infrastructure, and the wider economics of EVs remain just as important. Chapters 00:00 The motor behind the headline 01:10 Axial flux explained 03:15 Why high-performance EVs are difficult 05:20 From prototype to factory production 07:40 What the motor could change 09:45 Could it replace combustion engines? 11:30 What to watch next Sources Mercedes-Benz: Large-scale production of electric axial flux motor Reuters: Mercedes launches mass production of electric motor for high-performance AMG brand Mercedes-Benz: Strategy update on electric drive and YASA acquisition Disclaimer This video is for educational and informational purposes. Performance and production details are based on information available from the sources above; real-world results may differ from manufacturer claims.