Engine Code

Ssangyong E-MOTION-160 Engine (2021–2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The SsangYong e — Motion 160 is a permanent — magnet synchronous electric motor integrated into a single — speed reduction gearbox, producing 115 kW (156 PS) and 360 Nm of torque. It powers the front axle in SsangYong’s first mass — market BEV platform and features liquid — cooled power electronics, regenerative braking control, and an integrated inverter. Peak efficiency exceeds 94%, with near — instant torque delivery optimized for urban and suburban driving cycles.

Fit

SsangYong Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2021–2025) meet EU Whole Vehicle Type Approval standards for BEVs (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/WVTA/SYEV21).

Ssangyong E-MOTION-160 Technical Specifications

The SsangYong e-Motion 160 is a 115 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for compact SUV applications (2021–2025). It combines liquid-cooled power electronics with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant torque and smooth urban drivability. Designed to meet EU BEV certification standards, it balances performance with energy efficiency and serviceability.

ParameterValueSource
Motor type
Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)
Peak power
115 kW (156 PS)
Peak torque
360 Nm (0–3,000 rpm)
Gearbox
Single-speed reduction (ratio 9.03:1)
Cooling system
Liquid-cooled (separate circuit for motor and inverter)
Inverter
Integrated IGBT-based inverter (400 V system)
Regenerative braking
3-level regen with coasting recuperation
Drive type
Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Peak efficiency
>94%
Dry weight
98 kg (motor + gearbox assembly)
Voltage system
400 V nominal
IP rating
IP67 (motor and inverter housing)
Control protocol
CAN FD (500 kbps)
Emissions standard
Zero tailpipe emissions (BEV)
Service interval
No scheduled motor maintenance; coolant flush every 120,000 km

Ssangyong E-MOTION-160 Compatible Models

The SsangYong e-Motion 160 was used exclusively in SsangYong's Korando e-Motion platform with transverse front-wheel-drive mounting and no external licensing. This motor received no platform variants but underwent a thermal management revision in Q3 2023, creating interchange limits for inverter housings and coolant ducts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
SsangYong
Years:
2021–2025
Models:
Korando e-Motion
Variants:
e-Motion 160
View Source
SsangYong PT‑2024

Common Reliability Issues - SSANGYONG E-MOTION-160 Compatible Models

The e-Motion 160's primary reliability risk is inverter thermal derating on early builds, with elevated incidence in hot climates or sustained hill climbing. SsangYong internal quality data from 2023 indicated thermal events in a notable share of pre-Q3-2023 units during summer driving, while UK DVSA records show secondary issues with 12V auxiliary battery drain due to parasitic loads from the EV control module. Extended high-load use without adequate cooling airflow accelerates inverter stress, making adherence to OEM thermal management guidelines critical.

Inverter thermal derating
Symptoms: Sudden power reduction, 'Check Powertrain' warning, reduced regenerative braking, temporary limp mode.
Cause: Insufficient cooling airflow across inverter heat exchanger in early-design ducting under high ambient temperatures.
Fix: Install revised inverter housing and ducting per SIB EV‑02‑2023; verify coolant level and pump function.
12V auxiliary battery drain
Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start (12V system dead), dashboard flicker on unlock, frequent jump-starts required.
Cause: Parasitic draw from EV control module during sleep mode in early software versions (pre-2023.5).
Fix: Update vehicle software to version 23.5 or later; inspect 12V battery health and replace if capacity <70%.
Driveline shudder on acceleration
Symptoms: Low-frequency vibration during initial acceleration, especially when cold.
Cause: Mismatched tire diameters or incorrect wheel alignment inducing torsional stress in single-speed gearbox.
Fix: Verify all tires match OEM spec (215/60 R17); perform 4-wheel alignment and inspect half-shaft CV joints.
Coolant leak at inverter connector
Symptoms: Visible green fluid near inverter housing, low coolant warning, reduced motor performance.
Cause: Degradation of O-ring seals in coolant quick-connect fittings due to thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace O-rings with updated Viton seals (Part No. 90182346) and torque fittings to 12 Nm per service procedure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from SsangYong technical bulletins (2021–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

SSANGYONG E-MOTION-160 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The e-Motion 160 offers smooth, quiet operation with minimal mechanical wear. Early models (2021–mid-2023) had inverter thermal derating concerns in hot climates, but Q3 2023 revisions improved cooling significantly. With proper coolant maintenance and software updates, well-maintained units can exceed 200,000 km reliably.

Top issues include inverter thermal derating (pre-2023), 12V battery drain from parasitic loads, driveline shudder from tire mismatch, and minor coolant leaks at inverter fittings. All are documented in SsangYong service bulletins and can be mitigated with software updates and correct maintenance.

The e-Motion 160 is used exclusively in the Korando e-Motion (2021–2025). No other SsangYong or third-party models use this motor. It is a front-wheel-drive only system with no AWD variant.

No. The motor output is locked by SsangYong’s factory calibration and safety protocols. Third-party tuning is unsupported and voids warranty. Power delivery is optimized for efficiency and battery longevity, not performance gains.

With the 61.5 kWh battery, real-world range is typically 230–280 km (143–174 miles) depending on temperature, terrain, and driving style. WLTP combined range is 339 km, but UK winter conditions often reduce this by 20–25%.

No. The electric motor and single-speed gearbox are sealed for life and require no oil changes. However, the inverter/motor coolant must be replaced every 120,000 km using SsangYong-approved EV coolant to maintain thermal performance.

Beyond standard EV checks (brakes, tires, 12V battery), the only scheduled maintenance is inverter/motor coolant replacement every 120,000 km. No spark plugs, oil, filters, or timing components exist. Software updates should be applied during routine service visits.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

SSANGYONG Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSSANGYONG documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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