IMPACT - Integrated Magsplit Powertrain with Advanced Control and Testing

A magnetic gearbox the size of a suitcase could cut new car CO₂ emissions by 1.3 million tonnes per year by 2025. The problem is that hybrid electric vehicle powertrains—the combination of engine, motor, and transmission—are still too heavy and inefficient for mass adoption. Magnomatics’ MAGSPLIT uses a magnetic planetary gear and a compact control motor to replace the usual mechanical continuously variable transmission, reducing friction and energy losses. The company has already shown the core component works in a lab; this project builds a full powertrain on a test rig, using specifications from a major automotive manufacturer. If the demonstrator proves reliable and cost-effective, the OEM partner can assess the business case for volume manufacturing in the UK and European Economic Area. Success would mean lighter, more efficient hybrids on the road without waiting for a full battery-electric fleet—a practical step toward cutting transport emissions using existing manufacturing infrastructure. The project is applied engineering, not fundamental science: it aims to de-risk a specific technology for commercial production.