The Volkswagen MEB eMotor 150 is a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor integrated into the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform, produced from 2020 onward. It delivers 150 kW (204 PS) and 310 Nm of torque via a single-speed reduction gearbox. The motor uses hairpin winding technology and oil-cooling for high continuous power output and thermal efficiency, enabling strong acceleration and consistent regenerative braking performance.
Fitted to models such as the ID.3, ID.4, and ID.5 in Pro and Pro Performance trims, the MEB eMotor 150 was engineered for urban agility and long-distance usability with low noise and high drivetrain efficiency. Emissions compliance is inherently met through zero tailpipe emissions, satisfying Euro 6d and EU CO₂ fleet targets under Regulation (EU) 2019/631.
One documented concern is inverter capacitor degradation under sustained high-load conditions, noted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin EL‑2022‑08. This issue stems from thermal stress on DC-link capacitors during repeated fast charging and highway driving in high ambient temperatures. From 2023, revised inverter firmware and updated capacitor materials were introduced across MEB production lines.
All MEB eMotor 150 units (2020–present) comply with Euro 6d and zero tailpipe emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MEB2020).
The Volkswagen MEB eMotor 150 is a 150 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor engineered for compact and mid-size EVs (2020–present). It combines hairpin stator windings with direct oil cooling to deliver responsive torque and high continuous output. Designed to meet Euro 6d-equivalent zero-emission standards, it balances performance with energy efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (electric motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric | |
| Configuration | Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) | |
| Torque | 310 Nm (continuous) | |
| Fuel system | N/A | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (zero tailpipe emissions) | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Oil-cooled stator and inverter | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | MEB Gearbox & Motor Oil G 062 171 A2 | |
| Dry weight | 90 kg (motor + gearbox) |
The hairpin-wound PMSM provides instant torque and quiet operation but requires use of OEM-specified MEB gearbox oil (G 062 171 A2) to maintain cooling and lubrication integrity. Fast charging above 100 kW repeatedly in ambient temperatures >35°C may accelerate inverter capacitor wear; firmware updates from 2023 mitigate this. Regenerative braking settings should be used consistently to reduce mechanical brake wear. The single-speed reduction gearbox is sealed for life but relies on correct oil fill during assembly—verified via TIS procedure EL‑9021.
Oil Specs: Requires MEB-specific oil G 062 171 A2 (Volkswagen SIB EL‑2022‑08). Not interchangeable with standard ATF or gear oils.
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions comply with Euro 6d and EU Regulation (EU) 2019/631 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MEB2020).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 18489 standards for electric propulsion systems (Volkswagen TIS Doc. EL‑9015).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EL‑9012, EL‑9015, EL‑9021, SIB EL‑2022‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/MEB2020)
ISO 18489:2019 Electric Road Vehicle Drivetrain Performance Testing
The Volkswagen MEB eMotor 150 was used across Volkswagen's MEB platform with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and Audi under the Volkswagen Group EV strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised inverter mounting in the ID.4 and enhanced cooling ducts in the ID.5—and from 2023 the updated inverter hardware with improved thermal management, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Škoda Enyaq iV 60 and Audi Q4 e-tron 35 to use identical or derivative motor units. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the motor identification plate on the rear housing near the inverter (Volkswagen TIS EL‑9020). The 8th VIN digit indicates powertrain: 'E' for 150 kW MEB eMotor. Pre-2023 units use inverter part number 1AA 998 351 A; post-2023 use 1AA 998 351 B with updated capacitors. Critical differentiation from 125 kW variant: 150 kW motor has larger stator laminations and dual oil jets visible through inspection port. Gearbox oil fill volume differs—150 kW requires 1.8 L vs 1.5 L for 125 kW (Volkswagen SIB EL‑2022‑08).
The MEB eMotor 150's primary reliability risk is inverter DC-link capacitor degradation under sustained high thermal load, with elevated incidence in hot climates and frequent DC fast charging. Volkswagen internal field data (2023) indicated a measurable rise in inverter fault codes in vehicles with >150 fast charges per year, while UK DVSA data shows minimal drivetrain MOT failures due to the absence of combustion emissions systems. Thermal management and correct oil specification make long-term reliability highly dependent on usage patterns and maintenance adherence.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2020-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN MEB-EMOTOR-150.
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