Direct Current (DC) Motor Market: A Global and Regional Analysis, 2023-2033

Report Highlights

The Global Direct Current (DC) Motor Market Expected to Reach $74.36 Billion by 2033

DC Motor Market Overview

The global DC motor market is projected to reach $74.36 billion by 2033 from $34.31 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.04% during the forecast period 2023-2033. The market is at a growing stage and is projected to experience steady growth. Players in the market are investing in research, product launches, and partnerships to expand their customer base and enhance market share.

The market is expected to witness considerable growth due to the rising demand for electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and power tool solutions. This market's growth is driven by the need for higher energy efficiency along with high-performance brushless DC motors. The precise control of DC motors and reliability further make it a suitable option for a wide range of applications, including automotive, consumer electronics, and power tools, among others.

Market Introduction

The market study conducted by BIS Research considered the definition of a direct current (DC) motor as a motor that is powered by direct current and converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The mechanical energy generated from this conversion causes rotation movement within the rotor, which powers different components used in industrial applications. These applications include automotive, power tools, consumer electronics, and industrial machinery.

Two types of DC motors are mainly used in the market, which include brushed DC (BDC) motors and brushless DC (BLDC) motors. BDC is the simplest type of DC motor, which uses brushes to deliver current to motor windings. BLDC motor is an electronically operated DC motor that does not have brushes.

Industrial Impact

Over the next decade (2023-2033), the DC motor industry is poised for significant evolution and expansion. Continued innovation in motor technologies is expected to lead to more efficient and cost-effective solutions to a wide range of applications, including automotive, power tools, and industrial machinery, among others. The focus on sustainability and circular economy principles would intensify, prompting governments, industries, and consumers to adopt EVs, which are expected to drive the DC motor demand in the coming years from 2023 to 2033. Increased investment in motor controller developments and focus on rising motor efficiency would spur innovation and the development of DC motor technologies. The next decade presents an opportunity for the DC motor owing to the expansion of industrial automation and rising demand for DC motors in the industrial machinery industry.

Market Segmentation:

Segmentation 1: by Application Type

• Automotive
• Power Tools
• Consumer Electronics
• Industrial Machinery
• Others

Industrial Machinery to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Application)

In industrial machinery, DC motors play a pivotal role by powering conveyor systems, pumps, compressors, and various manufacturing equipment, addressing the diverse requirements of industrial processes. The utilization of both brushed and brushless DC motors is prevalent, each tailored to meet the specific demands of the respective system. Brushed motors, known for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, coexist with brushless motors that offer reduced maintenance, improved efficiency, and enhanced overall performance.

The future growth potential of the market in industrial machinery is robust, fueled by the continuous modernization and automation of industrial processes. Key drivers for this anticipated growth encompass the escalating demand for energy-efficient solutions, the necessity for precise and controllable motion, and ongoing advancements in motor control technologies. The increasing adoption of DC motors in industrial machinery is driven by their integral role in enhancing productivity, reliability, and energy savings in the realm of manufacturing and processing.

Segmentation 2: by Functionality

• Standalone
• Integrated

Integrated Functionality to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Functionality)

DC motors, seamlessly integrated with closed-loop controllers, showcase exceptional performance in applications demanding precise motion control, notably in fields such as robotics and computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Furthermore, integrating DC motors with speed controllers proves advantageous in conveyor systems, facilitating efficient material handling with customizable speeds. In heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, the synergy of DC motors with controllers enables variable-speed fans, optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring comfort.

Additionally, DC motors harmonized with position controllers emerge as ideal actuator choices, providing accurate and controlled positioning in automated doors and valves. Integrating DC motors with electronic throttle controllers in automotive applications is pivotal, offering meticulous control over engine speed and acceleration. Moreover, integrating DC motors with power management controllers finds practical use in battery-powered devices, systematically optimizing energy consumption and significantly extending battery life. All these are expected to drive the market growth over the forecast timeframe from 2023 to 2033.

Segmentation 3: by Motor Type

• Brushless DC (BLDC) Motor
• Brushed DC (BDC) Motor

Brushless DC (BLDC) Motor to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Motor Type)

BLDC motors, characterized by the non-existence of brushes, exhibit advantages that translate into higher efficiency and prolonged operational life by reducing friction and wear. Their notable precision in controlling speed and position renders them ideal for applications demanding accurate and responsive performance, including robotics and precision manufacturing. The absence of brushes enhances reliability and reduces maintenance requirements, leading to decreased downtime, which is particularly beneficial in industrial and automotive settings.

With a compact and lightweight design, BLDC motors find suitability in applications where space and weight considerations are critical, exemplified by their use in electric vehicles and drones. The efficient power utilization in BLDC motors contributes to heightened energy efficiency, reducing overall power consumption and positioning them as favored choices in applications that prioritize sustainability and extended battery life.

Segmentation 4: by Operating Voltage

• 12V
• 24V
• 48V
• 100V
• Above 100V

12V to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Operating Voltage)

A 12V operating voltage endows the DC motor with compatibility across a broad spectrum of power sources, providing versatility in applications where 12V systems prevail. Commonly found in automotive applications such as power windows, windshield wipers, and fans, 12V DC motors seamlessly align with the standard voltage in many automotive systems. Their suitability for portable devices makes them a staple in battery-powered electronics, ensuring efficient operation within the typical voltage range of rechargeable batteries. In solar-powered systems, a 12V DC motor harmonizes with the voltage output of prevalent solar panels, enabling straightforward integration into solar-powered projects or devices. The widespread prevalence of 12V systems across various industries ensures ease of integration, simplifying the design and deployment of applications, ranging from hobbyist projects to small appliances and specific industrial equipment.

Segmentation 5: by Drive Type

• Half Bridge
• Full Bridge

Full Bridge to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Drive Type)

The full-bridge drive configuration provides enhanced control precision, making it ideal for applications that demand fine-tuned motor control.

With bidirectional control and regenerative braking capability, the full-bridge drive ensures efficient energy utilization and dynamic control, particularly in electric vehicles and robotics applications. Engineered for high-power handling, this drive type is well-suited for heavy-duty applications, including industrial machinery and automation systems.

The full-bridge drive facilitates dynamic reversal and rapid response in motor operations, proving crucial for applications requiring quick and precise speed and direction changes.

Segmentation 6: by Phase

• Single Phase
• Three Phase

Three Phase to Dominate the DC Motor Market (by Phase)

The three-phase configuration ensures efficient power conversion, making it optimal for applications demanding high power and performance. Widely employed in heavy-duty industrial machinery such as compressors, pumps, and conveyors, the three-phase DC motor offers robustness and reliability. With superior torque and precise speed control, this motor excels in applications requiring dynamic performance and versatility. Recognized for reduced vibrations and noise levels, the three-phase DC motor enhances operational efficiency and comfort in industrial settings.

Equipped with advanced control features, including variable frequency drives, the three-phase DC motor provides enhanced control capabilities, ensuring optimal performance in complex applications such as electric propulsion systems and large-scale automation.

Segmentation 7: by Region

• North America: U.S., Mexico, and Canada
• Europe: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, U.K., and Rest-of-Europe
• Asia-Pacific: China, India, Japan, South Korea and Rest-of-Asia-Pacific
• Rest-of-the-World: Middle East and Africa and South America

The introduction of ENEK as an energy service brand, integrating cutting-edge technologies, positions itself as a platform for industrial empowerment, potentially driving the demand for DC motors as part of comprehensive energy solutions. The event's success, marked by affirmations from experts and guests, reflects industry acceptance, influencing others to explore and implement similar technologies, including advanced DC motors.

Aligning with the national strategy for clean and low-carbon transformation, Shanghai Electric's transition to sustainable practices suggests a growing need for energy-efficient technologies such as DC motors in the evolving energy landscape of China.

Recent Developments in This Market

• In May 2022, maxon launched the EC frameless DT50S motor, a shortened version of the DT50M, which delivers impressive power density and enhanced heat dissipation. With integrated temperature sensors, it ensures high-precision temperature monitoring for applications with dynamic torque and power requirements.
• In March 2023, ORIENTAL MOTOR Co., Ltd. introduced a new category of network-capable drives, smaller and lighter than box drives, with support for battery power, including motors connectable to the DC power input of the AZ series and electric modules equipped with these motors.
• In June 2023, maxon, despite facing a challenging business environment, invested in new production facilities, as seen in the completion of the subsidiary Parvalux's new production site in Bournemouth, U.K., which consolidated four existing sites.

Demand - Drivers, Limitations, and Opportunities

Market Demand Drivers: Rising Emphasis on Energy-Efficient Motors

Various nations provide tax and financial incentives to support energy efficiency initiatives. In the U.S., for instance, both federal and state governments offer tax credits to promote energy-efficient practices in businesses and residences, with programs such as the Energy Star Voluntary Program administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This heightened focus on energy efficiency is anticipated to drive increased demand for DC motors across various applications.
Countries such as China, the U.K., India, and Germany are making substantial investments in electric vehicles to respond to the environmental impact of conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles, aiming to mitigate significant air pollution levels.

Market Challenges: Affordable Motors Posing Threats to Industry Giants

The emergence of low-cost and low-quality motors poses a threat to established high-quality manufacturers, creating pressure to enhance their offerings or risk losing market share.
The potential decline in consumer trust may impede the widespread adoption of brushless DC motors across various industries.
Established manufacturers are experiencing heightened competition with substandard alternatives, which is impacting both market share and profitability.
To tackle this challenge, DC motor manufacturers must prioritize rigorous quality control measures, educate consumers about the long-term benefits of their high-quality products, and enforce industry standards to uphold the market’s integrity.

Market Opportunities: Surging Factory Automation and Adoption of Industrial Robotics

Emerging markets in regions such as the Asia-Pacific and South America have been witnessing a surge in industrialization, an upward trajectory in consumer purchasing power, and a growing demand for diverse products, including brushless DC motors.
According to the latest World Robotics Report 2023, regionally, Asia witnessed the highest proportion with 73% of newly deployed robots, followed by Europe at 15% and the Americas at 10%.
DC motors are well-suited for robotics applications due to their ability to convert direct current electrical energy into mechanical energy precisely. They offer advantages such as compact design, high torque at low speeds, and ease of control. With the growing reliance on robotics in manufacturing, DC motors have become a preferred choice for efficient and effective power solutions in various robotic movements.

How can this report add value to an organization?

Product/Innovation Strategy: The product segment helps the reader understand the different applications of the DC motors. The market is poised for significant expansion with ongoing technological advancements, increased investments, and growing awareness of DC motor technology. Therefore, the DC motor business is a high-investment and high-revenue generating model.

Growth/Marketing Strategy: The market has been growing at a rapid pace. The market offers enormous opportunities for existing and emerging market players. Some of the strategies covered in this segment are mergers and acquisitions, product launches, partnerships and collaborations, business expansions, and investments. The strategies preferred by companies to maintain and strengthen their market position primarily include partnerships and collaborations.

Competitive Strategy: Key players in the market were analyzed and profiled in the study. Additionally, a comprehensive competitive landscape such as partnerships, agreements, and collaborations are expected to aid the reader in understanding the untapped revenue pockets in the market.