Railway Traction Motor Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis

Railway Traction Motor Market By Type (AC, DC), By Application (Diesel Locomotive, Diesel-Electric Locomotive), By Technology (Evapotranspiration, Soil Moisture) By Region -Industry Forecast 2025-2032


Report ID: SQMIG20I2311 | Region: Global | Published Date: February, 2025
Pages: 199 |Tables: 64 |Figures: 70

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Railway Traction Motor Market Insights

Global Railway Traction Motor Market size was valued at USD 7.15 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 7.4 Billion in 2024 to USD 9.71 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.46% in the forecast period (2025-2032).

Railway traction motors have a sealed structure that helps in preventing dust penetration, require less maintenance and have better accessory devices, such as cooling fans to reduce noise. Railway traction motors are extremely reliable because the stator is integrated using high-frequency heating. As a result, these motors are extensively used in electric, diesel-electric locomotives, and electric multiple units (EMUs) all over the world. Due to their great weight and lengthy service life, railway coaches need engines that are strong, durable, and capable of sustaining significant mechanical force. Furthermore, railway traction motors offer the necessary power required for the proper operation of the railway coach.

In recent times, there is an increase in the expansion of the railway network globally, which is helping in the transportation of products and commodities across longer distances than roadways. This is one of the important reasons boosting the demand for railway traction motors. Traction motors have several advantages, such as a small design, high power efficiency, and long life. These benefits along with various measures taken by governments of various nations to promote the use of electric motors, is encouraging the growth of the railway traction motors market. Moreover, the electrification of railway networks and the transformation of traditional diesel locomotives to electric locomotives are increasing, leading to the railway traction motor market growth.

Market snapshot - (2025-2032)

Global Market Size

USD 7.15 Billion

Largest Segment

AC

Fastest Growth

DC

Growth Rate

3.46% CAGR

Global Railway Traction Motor Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for Asia Pacific Region (%)

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Railway Traction Motor Market Segments Analysis

The global railway traction motor market is segmented into type, application, and region. Based on type, the market is segmented into AC, DC, and synchronous AC motors. Based on application, the market is segmented into diesel locomotives, diesel-electric locomotives, electric locomotives, and electric multiple units (EMUs). Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Analysis by Type

Based on type, the AC segment is dominating with the largest railway traction motor market share. AC motors segment is dominating in the market because of their efficiency and scalability advantages over DC motors. AC motors provide improved speed regulation under varying load conditions as compared to DC motors. The ability of AC motors to efficiently operate at multiple speed ranges using variable frequency drives makes them highly scalable, depending on the power needs of the application. This flexibility allows AC motors to be used across diverse industries such as railways, industrial machinery, mining and construction equipment. The independent controllability of torque and speed in AC motors also provides more optimized propulsion control in comparison with DC motors. This precise controllability is essential for advanced traction applications, particularly those with frequent start-stop cycles and regenerative braking capabilities.

The DC segment is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period. DC traction motors are a staple of the electric traction drives on electric and diesel-electric locomotives, street cars/trams, and diesel-electric drilling rigs. The DC traction has two components, the rotating armature and fixed field windings, which are mounted around the rotating armature's shaft. DC traction motors are available in series-wound or parallel (shunt) configurations, both of which operate on a direct current supply. Depending on the use and requirements of traction motors, the torque is manually controlled by an operator or automatically through a relay system. Additionally, in DC motors, the initial phase of current flow generates the most torque, which is particularly beneficial for applications requiring frequent start-stop operations, such as in industrial machinery or certain railway traction systems.

Analysis by Application

Based on application, the diesel locomotive system segment is dominating the railway traction motor market. Diesel engines are valued for their efficiency and high power output, making them ideal for locomotives designed to pull heavy loads. In comparison with gasoline engines, they depend on spark plugs for ignition, diesel engines utilize compression ignition. They compress air to a high pressure and temperature, then inject diesel fuel. This high-pressure environment causes the fuel to ignite spontaneously. The diesel locomotives engine serves as the prime mover. It generates the mechanical power necessary to drive the generator or alternator. Many modern locomotives use turbocharged diesel engines to enhance efficiency and power output. These turbocharged engines can generate substantial power, often in the range of several thousand horsepower.

As per the railway traction motor market analysis, the diesel-electric locomotive segment is expected to be the fastest growing segment. Diesel-electric locomotives provide immense benefits over conventional steam locomotives, like improved efficiency due to optimal fuel usage and minimized energy loss. They are more dependable due to the separation of power generation and transmission, which minimizes mechanical failures. With less mechanical parts, they also require less maintenance and are more affordable. Furthermore, they are versatile and adaptable due to which they perform better in various settings and conditions. The latest models are more eco-friendly and have technologies for minimizing emissions. The adoption of diesel-electric locomotives is increasing due to their precise speed and torque control, efficient braking, and smooth handling contributing to their popularity in rail transport.

Global Railway Traction Motor Market Analysis by Type

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Railway Traction Motor Market Regional Insights

Asia Pacific dominates the railway traction motor market, holding the largest market share. This region leads the market due to rising urbanization, increasing per capita income, and favorable government policies for electric vehicles. Moreover, continuous developments in transportation infrastructure, including HEVs, railway connections, high-speed bullet trains, and metro rail systems, are also contributing to the market's growth. Furthermore, the rising demand for narrow gauges and industrial railway rolling stock, along with electric, hybrid, and diesel-electric locomotives, is contributing to the growth of the electric traction motors market in the Asia-Pacific region. Countries like China and India are key markets for electric traction motors in the region, mainly due to the presence of several market leaders and high expenditure on R&D.

North America is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the railway traction motor market forecast period.  The market in North America is growing rapidly because of increasing adoption of electric locomotives and diesel-electric locomotives. The market is also growing due to increasing investment in railways by the key automotive companies implementing regulations for using eco-friendly motors and growing end-use industries. Furthermore, countries like the U.S. are contributing to most of the revenue to the regional market. This is because of the presence of key industry players, surging adoption of electric vehicles, and high spending power of people in the country.

Global Railway Traction Motor Market By Geography
  • Largest
  • Fastest

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Railway Traction Motor Market Dynamics

Drivers

Growing Popularity of Electric Locomotives

  • The growth of the global railway traction motor market is driven by increasing demand for electric and diesel-electric locomotives worldwide. With growing concerns about environmental pollution and the need to reduce carbon footprints, major automobile manufacturers are focusing more on developing efficient electric and hybrid vehicle models. Moreover, customer preferences are rapidly shifting in favor of green vehicles due to increasing awareness of the benefits of electric railway transportation.

Improved Performance of Traction Motors

  • Traction motors provide various advantages, such as power efficiency, compact design, and durability, promote their usage in railways. As a result, traction motors have become an important component in railways. Traction motors allow for the easy delivery of power to the locomotive wheels, culminating in the railways' initial slow motion. Then, to obtain more speed, more power is used. Consequently, the safety of the cargo and the crew and passengers onboard the locomotive are not endangered, ensuring the safe delivery of the products.

Restraints

High Expense of Initial Development

  • The traction motors have compact design, high durability, and reliability, but the procedures involved in creating and manufacturing them require advanced equipment and technology. Moreover, optimizing and customizing these traction motors to perfectly match the application necessitates exceptional technical skills, raising the cost of traction motor production even further. As a result, the heavy investment costs related to the creation and installation of traction motors pose significant difficulties for manufacturers.

Lack of Charging Infrastructure

  • Global railway traction motor market growth can be restricted because of the limited charging infrastructure and anxiety related with electric locomotives. In comparison with diesel trains, the electric locomotives must be charged regularly. But in most countries, especially the developing ones, there is still a lack of robust and widespread charging infrastructure. This can discourage many consumers from purchasing electric vehicles as these are worried about running out of charge mid-way during long distance travel. 

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Railway Traction Motor Market Competitive Landscape

The railway traction motor industry is characterized by a diversified, competitive landscape that is influenced by numerous industry players, technological advancements, and shifting consumer demands. As the railway sector continues to grow with an increasing emphasis on electrification and sustainability, traction motors have become vital components for improving efficiency and performance in rail systems. Companies in this market are racing to innovate, develop lighter and more durable traction motors, and integrate smart technologies. Competitive dynamics are shaped by factors such as technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and the need for environmentally friendly solutions.

Top Player’s Company Profile

  • Ansaldo STS
  • We've Electricals
  • Hitachi
  • Mitsubishi Electric
  • Alstom
  • Thyssenkrupp
  • Bharat Heavy Electricals
  • General Electric
  • Wabtec
  • Crompton Greaves
  • Emerson Electric
  • Zhejiang Yonggui Electric
  • Toshiba
  • Siemens
  • Bombardier

Recent Developments

  • In July 2022, Mahle manufactured an electric traction motor suitable for commercial vehicles, and construction tractors and machines. This traction motor can operate continuously and offer better performance.
  • In April 2022, ABB India revealed that the company is building a dedicated unit to manufacture 1,500 traction motors. These will provide critical propulsion systems necessary in metro rail projects and other locomotives in Gujarat, India.
  • In January 2022, Bosch signed a strategic agreement with IRP Systems. Under this agreement, the companies will provide Bosch's popular automotive manufacturing abilities and IRP's innovative e-powertrain technology to provide top quality, robust and inexpensive switches.

Railway Traction Motor Key Market Trends

Railway Traction Motor Market SkyQuest Analysis

SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.

As per SkyQuest analysis, the railway traction motor industry is witnessing a steady growth. Increasing incorporation of traction motors in railway engines, and the advantages such as lower emission, easy maintenance and lighter weight, are among the primary factors supplementing the growth. Moreover, increase in R&D, reduction in loss in performance, and rising budget for the development of railways are the key factors that are boosting the adoption of railway traction motors. Companies like ABB GROUP, Alstom, Bombardier, Siemens Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, some of the prominent manufacturers of railway traction motors are investing heavily in advancing the growth of the market.

Report Metric Details
Market size value in 2023 USD 7.15 Billion
Market size value in 2032 USD 9.71 Billion
Growth Rate 3.46%
Base year 2024
Forecast period (2025-2032)
Forecast Unit (Value) USD Billion
Segments covered
  • Type
    • AC, DC, and Synchronous AC Motors
  • Application
    • Diesel Locomotives, Diesel-Electric Locomotives, Electric Locomotives, and Electric Multiple Units (EMUs)
Regions covered North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA)
Companies covered
  • Ansaldo STS
  • We've Electricals
  • Hitachi
  • Mitsubishi Electric
  • Alstom
  • Thyssenkrupp
  • Bharat Heavy Electricals
  • General Electric
  • Wabtec
  • Crompton Greaves
  • Emerson Electric
  • Zhejiang Yonggui Electric
  • Toshiba
  • Siemens
  • Bombardier
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Table Of Content

Executive Summary

Market overview

  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Overview
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Market Overview
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Railway Traction Motor Market Characteristics
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market by Geography
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Segmentation
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Incremental Growth
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Incremental Growth
  • Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

Parent Market Analysis

Market overview

Market size

  • Market Dynamics
    • Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
      • Drivers
      • Opportunities
      • Restraints
      • Challenges
  • SWOT Analysis

KEY MARKET INSIGHTS

  • Technology Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and details)
  • Pricing Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and pricing details)
  • Supply Chain Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Detailed Supply Chain Presentation)
  • Value Chain Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Detailed Value Chain Presentation)
  • Ecosystem Of the Market
    • Exhibit: Parent Market Ecosystem Market Analysis
    • Exhibit: Market Characteristics of Parent Market
  • IP Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of product/technology, patents filed, inventor/company name, acquiring firm)
  • Trade Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Import and Export data details)
  • Startup Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Emerging startups details)
  • Raw Material Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Mapping of key raw materials)
  • Innovation Matrix
    • (Exhibit: Positioning Matrix: Mapping of new and existing technologies)
  • Pipeline product Analysis
    • (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of companies and pipeline products, regional mapping)
  • Macroeconomic Indicators

COVID IMPACT

  • Introduction
  • Impact On Economy—scenario Assessment
    • Exhibit: Data on GDP - Year-over-year growth 2016-2022 (%)
  • Revised Market Size
    • Exhibit: Data Table on Railway Traction Motor Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Impact Of COVID On Key Segments
    • Exhibit: Data Table on Segment Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • COVID Strategies By Company
    • Exhibit: Analysis on key strategies adopted by companies

MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK

  • Market Dynamics
    • Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
      • Drivers
      • Opportunities
      • Restraints
      • Challenges
  • Regulatory Landscape
    • Exhibit: Data Table on regulation from different region
  • SWOT Analysis
  • Porters Analysis
    • Competitive rivalry
      • Exhibit: Competitive rivalry Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Threat of substitute products
      • Exhibit: Threat of Substitute Products Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Bargaining power of buyers
      • Exhibit: buyers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Threat of new entrants
      • Exhibit: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors, 2021
    • Bargaining power of suppliers
      • Exhibit: Threat of suppliers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
  • Skyquest special insights on future disruptions
    • Political Impact
    • Economic impact
    • Social Impact
    • Technical Impact
    • Environmental Impact
    • Legal Impact

Market Size by Region

  • Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2027 (%)
  • Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2027(%)
  • North America
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • USA
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Canada
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Europe
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • Germany
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Spain
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • France
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • UK
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of Europe
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Asia Pacific
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • China
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • India
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Japan
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • South Korea
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Latin America
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • Brazil
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of South America
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
  • Middle East & Africa (MEA)
    • Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
    • Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
    • GCC Countries
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • South Africa
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
    • Rest of MEA
      • Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
      • Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)

KEY COMPANY PROFILES

  • Competitive Landscape
    • Total number of companies covered
      • Exhibit: companies covered in the report, 2021
    • Top companies market positioning
      • Exhibit: company positioning matrix, 2021
    • Top companies market Share
      • Exhibit: Pie chart analysis on company market share, 2021(%)

Methodology

For the Railway Traction Motor Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:

1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.

2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Railway Traction Motor Market.

3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.

4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.

Analyst Support

Customization Options

With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Railway Traction Motor Market:

Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.

Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Railway Traction Motor Market for additional countries.

Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.

Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.

Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.

Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.

Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.

Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.

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FAQs

Global Railway Traction Motor Market size was valued at USD 7.15 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 7.4 Billion in 2024 to USD 9.71 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.46% in the forecast period (2025-2032).

The railway traction motor industry is characterized by a diversified, competitive landscape that is influenced by numerous industry players, technological advancements, and shifting consumer demands. As the railway sector continues to grow with an increasing emphasis on electrification and sustainability, traction motors have become vital components for improving efficiency and performance in rail systems. Companies in this market are racing to innovate, develop lighter and more durable traction motors, and integrate smart technologies. Competitive dynamics are shaped by factors such as technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and the need for environmentally friendly solutions. 'Ansaldo STS ', 'We've Electricals ', 'Hitachi ', 'Mitsubishi Electric ', 'Alstom ', 'Thyssenkrupp ', 'Bharat Heavy Electricals ', 'General Electric ', 'Wabtec ', 'Crompton Greaves ', 'Emerson Electric ', 'Zhejiang Yonggui Electric ', 'Toshiba ', 'Siemens ', 'Bombardier'

The growth of the global railway traction motor market is driven by increasing demand for electric and diesel-electric locomotives worldwide. With growing concerns about environmental pollution and the need to reduce carbon footprints, major automobile manufacturers are focusing more on developing efficient electric and hybrid vehicle models. Moreover, customer preferences are rapidly shifting in favor of green vehicles due to increasing awareness of the benefits of electric railway transportation.

Increasing Demand for Battery-Electric Locomotive: The market is being boosted by the rising demand for battery-electric locomotives. These locomotives do not require fossil fuel to produce power, which mitigates direct emissions, noise, exhaust gases, and fuel storage. Furthermore, technological advancements in battery technologies have also increased investments in the production of battery-electric locomotives for practical applications. Moreover, some manufacturers are also offering railcars that combines rechargeable batteries with supercapacitors to get better and efficient operations. 

Asia Pacific dominates the railway traction motor market, holding the largest market share. This region leads the market due to rising urbanization, increasing per capita income, and favorable government policies for electric vehicles. Moreover, continuous developments in transportation infrastructure, including HEVs, railway connections, high-speed bullet trains, and metro rail systems, are also contributing to the market's growth. Furthermore, the rising demand for narrow gauges and industrial railway rolling stock, along with electric, hybrid, and diesel-electric locomotives, is contributing to the growth of the electric traction motors market in the Asia-Pacific region. Countries like China and India are key markets for electric traction motors in the region, mainly due to the presence of several market leaders and high expenditure on R&D.

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Railway Traction Motor Market

Report ID: SQMIG20I2311

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