~ Evolution of W22 line delivers IE5 efficiency with uncompromised flexibility ~
Global motor and drive manufacturer WEG has launched the W22 Prime, the next generation of its W22 induction motor range. Designed to deliver IE4 and IE5 efficiency levels without the need for an inverter, the W22 Prime combines the proven robustness of traditional induction technology with significantly enhanced energy performance. Available across a wide range of frame sizes and featuring multi-voltage capability as standard at IE4 efficiency, the motor integrates seamless into existing operations.
Building on the success of the current W22 range, which already delivers IE4 efficiency, the W22 Prime extends performance even further by offering up to IE5 efficiency while maintaining the simplicity of a direct-on-line (DOL) induction motor. This eliminates the need for additional components such as inverters and reduces system complexity, installation time and upfront costs.
The W22 Prime has been engineered to replace low-efficiency motors and integrate into existing installations, making it an ideal way to upgrade efficiency without requiring significant changes to infrastructure in both new and retrofit projects. By offering IE4 and IE5 efficiency levels as standard, the W22 Prime is designed as a future-proof solution, enabling users to meet the current regulatory requirements while avoiding the need for further motor upgrades as efficiency standards continue to evolve in line with changing sustainability targets.
A key advantage of the W22 Prime is its ability to deliver higher efficiency without requiring significant changes to existing setups. The line is designed to match standard IE3 frame sizes for easy upgrade to IE4. IE5 is also available in many of the same frame sizes.
Upon full release, the new line will offer one of the broadest IE5 frame size ranges on the market, empowering customers to boost performance and reduce energy consumption without increasing footprint or redesigning their systems. This means faster upgrades, lower total cost of ownership and immediate efficiency gains.
The motor’s unique multi-voltage capability further enhances its versatility. This feature enables original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end users to operate the same motor across different geographical regions worldwide and across a range of electrical grids. This simplifies logistics, reduces inventory requirements and provides greater flexibility for global operations.
Designed for a range of demanding industrial applications such as powering pumps, fans and compressors, the W22 Prime also features an optimised electromagnetic design and superior thermal performance, ensuring stable operation, long service life and reliable performance. It is compatible with both direct-on-line (DOL) and variable speed drive (VSD) operation, providing additional flexibility where required.
“Beyond energy efficiency, W22 Prime delivers additional operational advantages, including improved reliability, optimised noise and vibration levels, simplified maintenance and a lower total cost of ownership over the motor’s life cycle,” said Marcio Yoshikazu Ematsu, European marketing manager at WEG. “Even incremental efficiency gains can deliver substantial reductions in operating costs and CO₂ emissions over time. By offering IE4 and IE5 efficiency levels within a familiar induction motor platform, the W22 Prime enables our customers to replace their low-efficiency motors and implement higher efficiency standards across multiple applications and regions while maintaining simplicity, reliability and long-term value.”
The W22 Prime range is being released in stages, with frame sizes 225 to 315 available immediately, followed by 160 to 225 and 315 to 450 later this year, and 63 to 160 in 2027. Backed by a 36-month warranty and supported by WEG’s global engineering expertise, the W22 Prime represents a future-ready solution for industry, delivering higher efficiency, operational simplicity and the same trusted WEG DNA that customers expect from the W22 family.
To learn more about WEG’s W22 Prime motor line, visit the website.
About WEG: Founded in 1961, WEG is a global company specializing in electromechanical equipment, operating in the capital goods sector with a focus on motors, gearboxes and electric drives, power generators and transformers, products and systems for electrification, automation, and digitalization.
WEG stands out for its innovation through the constant development of solutions to address major trends in energy efficiency, operational efficiency, renewable energy and electric mobility. With manufacturing sites in 18 countries, commercial operations in 44 and sales to over 135 countries, the company has more than 49,000 employees worldwide. In 2025, WEG achieved net revenue of R$40.8 billion, of which 60% came from sales outside Brazil. For more information, visit www.weg.net
