Railway Traction Motors Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (AC Traction Motors,DC Traction Motors), By Applications (Diesel Locomotives,Electric Multiple Units (EMUs),Electric Locomotives,Diesel-Electric Locomotives) , and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2035

Railway Traction Motors Market Overview

Global Railway Traction Motors Market size is projected at USD 11460  million in 2026 and is expected to hit USD 15349.26 million by 2035 with a CAGR of 3.3%.

The Railway Traction Motors Market is a critical segment of the global railway electrification and rolling stock ecosystem, driven by increasing electrified rail networks exceeding 750,000 kilometers globally. Over 65% of newly manufactured locomotives and metro trains are equipped with advanced traction motor systems, including AC induction and permanent magnet motors. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis highlights strong demand from high-speed rail projects, with more than 40 countries investing in rail modernization. 

The United States Railway Traction Motors Market shows strong infrastructure deployment, with over 140,000 miles of railway track and approximately 28% electrified or semi-electrified corridors. More than 35 major metro rail systems operate across urban centers, supporting demand for advanced traction motors. Freight rail accounts for nearly 40% of long-distance cargo transportation, increasing reliance on high-performance traction systems. Investments in rail upgrades exceed 20% of total transport infrastructure budgets, with over 60% of locomotive upgrades involving traction motor replacements. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights indicate increasing adoption of energy-efficient motors across passenger and freight segments.

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Key Findings

• Key Market Driver: 68% electrification adoption, 52% efficiency improvement demand, 47% urban rail expansion, 61% government investment increase, 58% sustainability initiatives, 49% fleet modernization rate.
• Major Market Restraint: 46% high initial cost burden, 39% maintenance complexity, 33% supply chain disruption, 41% component cost fluctuation, 37% skilled labor shortage, 29% retrofit challenges.
• Emerging Trends: 64% adoption of permanent magnet motors, 51% digital monitoring integration, 43% lightweight materials usage, 56% automation in rail systems, 48% AI-based diagnostics adoption, 45% hybrid traction systems.
• Regional Leadership: 38% Asia-Pacific dominance, 27% Europe share, 19% North America presence, 9% Middle East growth, 7% Latin America expansion, 34% infrastructure investments concentration.
• Competitive Landscape: 42% market consolidation, 36% partnerships and joint ventures, 31% R&D investments, 29% product innovation rate, 33% OEM dominance, 28% aftermarket service expansion.
• Market Segmentation: 54% AC motors usage, 32% DC motors share, 46% passenger trains segment, 38% freight locomotives, 16% metro systems, 44% high-speed rail application.
• Recent Development: 57% new product launches, 49% electrification projects, 41% digital upgrades, 36% mergers activity, 44% smart rail initiatives, 39% sustainability-focused investments.

Railway Traction Motors Market Latest Trends

The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends are evolving rapidly with technological advancements in motor efficiency and sustainability. Over 64% of new rolling stock now incorporates AC traction motors due to higher efficiency and reduced maintenance compared to traditional DC motors. Permanent magnet synchronous motors are gaining traction, accounting for nearly 28% of installations in modern metro systems. The Railway Traction Motors Market Research Report highlights increased adoption of lightweight materials, reducing motor weight by approximately 15%, improving energy efficiency across high-speed trains operating above 250 km/h.

Digitalization is a major trend influencing Railway Traction Motors Market Growth, with over 51% of rail operators implementing predictive maintenance technologies. Smart sensors and IoT integration enable real-time monitoring, reducing downtime by nearly 30%. Hybrid propulsion systems are being adopted in 22% of new rail projects, enhancing operational flexibility. Additionally, over 48% of manufacturers are focusing on energy-efficient motor designs to comply with global emission regulations. The Railway Traction Motors Market Outlook indicates increasing demand for compact, high-power-density motors supporting urban transit expansion and freight efficiency improvements.

Railway Traction Motors Market Dynamics

DRIVER

"Expansion of Electrified Rail Networks"

The Railway Traction Motors Market is significantly driven by the expansion of electrified rail networks, with over 70% of new railway projects globally focusing on electrification. More than 45,000 kilometers of new electrified tracks are added annually, increasing demand for traction motors. Approximately 60% of governments prioritize rail electrification to reduce carbon emissions, leading to a surge in demand for efficient traction systems. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis shows that electrified rail systems improve energy efficiency by nearly 35% compared to diesel-based systems, further accelerating adoption across passenger and freight sectors.

RESTRAINTS

"High Capital and Maintenance Costs"

High initial investment and maintenance costs act as major restraints in the Railway Traction Motors Market. Advanced traction motors can increase locomotive costs by up to 25%, impacting adoption in developing regions. Nearly 40% of rail operators report budget constraints limiting upgrades to modern motor systems. Maintenance complexity also contributes to operational challenges, with repair costs accounting for approximately 18% of total lifecycle expenses. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights indicate that limited access to skilled technicians further affects maintenance efficiency, slowing market penetration in cost-sensitive regions.

OPPORTUNITY

"Integration of Smart and Energy-Efficient Technologies"

The integration of smart technologies presents strong opportunities in the Railway Traction Motors Market. Over 50% of railway operators are investing in IoT-enabled traction systems for predictive maintenance and performance optimization. Energy-efficient motor technologies reduce power consumption by nearly 20%, creating cost-saving opportunities for operators. The Railway Traction Motors Market Forecast highlights increasing demand for AI-driven diagnostics systems, improving operational efficiency by up to 30%. Additionally, the adoption of regenerative braking systems in over 35% of trains supports energy recovery, further enhancing market opportunities.

CHALLENGE

"Supply Chain Disruptions and Component Shortages"

Supply chain disruptions and component shortages pose significant challenges to the Railway Traction Motors Market Growth. Approximately 33% of manufacturers report delays in sourcing critical components such as copper windings and electronic control systems. Fluctuating raw material prices impact production costs by nearly 22%, affecting pricing strategies. The Railway Traction Motors Market Research Report indicates that geopolitical factors and trade restrictions contribute to supply instability. Additionally, dependence on specialized components increases vulnerability to shortages, impacting production timelines and delivery schedules across global markets.

Railway Traction Motors Market Segmentation

The Railway Traction Motors Market Segmentation is categorized based on type and application, reflecting diverse operational requirements across global rail networks. Over 54% of installations are dominated by AC traction motors due to efficiency advantages, while DC motors still account for nearly 32% in legacy systems. By application, electric locomotives and EMUs together contribute over 60% of total traction motor demand, driven by electrification expansion. Freight and hybrid locomotive segments contribute approximately 40%, highlighting balanced adoption across passenger and cargo transportation systems in the Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis.

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BY TYPE

AC Traction Motors: AC traction motors dominate the Railway Traction Motors Market Share, accounting for more than 54% of total installations across modern rail systems. These motors are widely adopted due to their higher efficiency levels, which improve energy utilization by approximately 20% compared to traditional systems. AC motors support speeds exceeding 300 km/h in high-speed trains, making them essential for advanced rail networks operating in over 35 countries. Their durability is evident in reduced maintenance cycles, with service intervals extended by nearly 30%, significantly lowering operational downtime. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends indicate that AC traction motors are increasingly integrated with digital control systems, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. Approximately 48% of rail operators have shifted toward AC-based propulsion systems due to their compatibility with regenerative braking technologies, which can recover up to 25% of energy during deceleration. Additionally, AC motors demonstrate superior torque performance, delivering consistent power output even under varying load conditions.

DC Traction Motors: DC traction motors continue to hold a substantial presence in the Railway Traction Motors Market, contributing nearly 32% of total usage, particularly in older railway infrastructure and retrofit projects. These motors are commonly used in legacy locomotives operating across regions where electrification modernization is gradual. DC motors are known for their simple design and high starting torque, which makes them suitable for heavy-duty applications, especially in freight operations handling loads exceeding 5,000 tons. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights reveal that approximately 40% of existing diesel-electric locomotives still rely on DC traction systems, particularly in developing regions where infrastructure upgrades are ongoing. Maintenance requirements for DC motors are higher, with brush and commutator replacements required in nearly 20% of operational cycles, increasing operational costs. However, their lower initial installation complexity makes them a preferred choice in cost-sensitive projects. 

BY APPLICATION

Diesel Locomotives: Diesel locomotives represent a significant segment within the Railway Traction Motors Market, contributing approximately 25% of traction motor demand globally. These locomotives are primarily used in regions where electrification is limited, covering nearly 45% of non-electrified rail routes worldwide. Traction motors in diesel locomotives are designed to deliver high torque, enabling efficient hauling of heavy freight loads exceeding 6,000 tons across long distances. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis indicates that over 50% of freight operations in developing economies rely on diesel locomotives, making traction motor performance critical for operational efficiency. These motors operate under extreme conditions, including high temperatures and continuous load cycles, requiring robust construction and thermal management systems. Approximately 35% of diesel locomotives incorporate upgraded traction motors to improve fuel efficiency by nearly 15%. 

Electric Multiple Units (EMUs): Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) account for over 30% of the Railway Traction Motors Market Share, driven by rapid urbanization and expansion of metro and suburban rail networks. EMUs are widely used in high-density urban areas, transporting more than 60% of daily rail passengers globally. Traction motors in EMUs are optimized for frequent acceleration and deceleration, with operational cycles exceeding 1,000 stops per day in busy transit systems. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends highlight that EMU traction motors achieve energy savings of up to 25% through regenerative braking systems. Approximately 55% of metro systems worldwide have adopted advanced traction motors to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. These motors are also designed for low noise and vibration, enhancing passenger comfort in urban environments. 

Electric Locomotives: Electric locomotives dominate long-distance passenger and freight operations, contributing approximately 35% of the Railway Traction Motors Market Size. These locomotives operate on electrified tracks, which account for over 55% of global rail networks. Traction motors used in electric locomotives are designed for high power output, supporting speeds above 200 km/h and hauling capacities exceeding 8,000 tons. The Railway Traction Motors Market Forecast indicates that electric locomotives are central to sustainable transportation strategies, with energy efficiency improvements of nearly 30% compared to diesel alternatives. Approximately 65% of new locomotive procurement projects focus on electric models, increasing demand for advanced traction motors. These motors also support regenerative braking, recovering up to 20% of energy during operation. 

Diesel-Electric Locomotives: Diesel-electric locomotives represent approximately 20% of the Railway Traction Motors Market, combining diesel engines with electric traction systems for improved efficiency. These locomotives are widely used in mixed electrification networks, where approximately 30% of routes require flexible propulsion systems. Traction motors in diesel-electric locomotives convert electrical energy generated by onboard diesel engines into mechanical motion, ensuring consistent performance. The Railway Traction Motors Market Research Report highlights that diesel-electric systems improve fuel efficiency by nearly 18% compared to conventional diesel locomotives. Around 45% of freight operators prefer diesel-electric locomotives due to their operational flexibility and lower emissions. These traction motors also provide enhanced torque control, improving traction performance on gradients and uneven tracks. 

Railway Traction Motors Market Regional Outlook

The Railway Traction Motors Market Outlook demonstrates a diversified regional distribution, with Asia-Pacific leading at approximately 38% market share due to extensive rail electrification and high-speed rail expansion. Europe accounts for nearly 27% driven by sustainable rail policies and advanced infrastructure. North America holds around 19% share supported by freight rail dominance and modernization initiatives. The Middle East & Africa contribute close to 9%, fueled by emerging rail projects, while Latin America captures about 7% with gradual infrastructure upgrades. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights highlight balanced growth across developed and developing regions, supported by electrification, urban transit expansion, and freight efficiency improvements.

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NORTH AMERICA

The North America Railway Traction Motors Market accounts for approximately 19% of global market share, supported by an extensive rail network exceeding 220,000 kilometers. Freight transportation dominates the region, with rail accounting for nearly 40% of long-distance cargo movement, driving consistent demand for high-performance traction motors. The United States contributes over 75% of regional rail operations, while Canada supports significant cross-border freight connectivity. Electrification levels remain moderate at around 30%, but ongoing modernization projects are increasing the adoption of advanced AC traction motors. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis in North America highlights that over 60% of locomotives in operation are undergoing upgrades to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Approximately 45% of freight locomotives incorporate traction motor enhancements to increase hauling capacity by up to 20%. Urban transit systems, including metro and commuter rail, are expanding across more than 35 metropolitan areas, contributing to increased demand for energy-efficient traction systems. Technological advancements are reshaping the Railway Traction Motors Market Growth in the region, with nearly 50% of rail operators adopting predictive maintenance systems. Digital monitoring technologies have reduced operational downtime by approximately 25%. 

EUROPE

Europe represents approximately 27% of the Railway Traction Motors Market Share, driven by one of the most advanced and electrified rail networks globally. Over 60% of rail lines in Europe are electrified, significantly boosting demand for high-efficiency traction motors. Countries such as Germany, France, and Italy lead in high-speed rail operations, with trains operating at speeds exceeding 300 km/h, requiring advanced traction motor technologies. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights indicate that more than 70% of passenger rail transport in Europe relies on electric trains, increasing the adoption of AC traction motors. Sustainability initiatives are a major driver, with nearly 65% of rail investments focused on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. Regenerative braking systems are widely implemented, recovering up to 20% of energy and improving overall system performance. Freight rail also plays a significant role, accounting for approximately 30% of land-based cargo transportation. The Railway Traction Motors Market Growth is supported by cross-border rail connectivity across over 25 countries, increasing demand for interoperable traction systems. 

GERMANY Railway Traction Motors Market

Germany accounts for approximately 22% of the European Railway Traction Motors Market Share, making it one of the leading contributors in the region. The country operates a rail network exceeding 38,000 kilometers, with over 60% electrified, supporting widespread adoption of advanced traction motor systems. High-speed trains operating above 300 km/h require high-performance motors, driving continuous technological innovation. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis in Germany highlights strong demand for energy-efficient systems, with nearly 70% of locomotives equipped with AC traction motors. Freight transport accounts for approximately 35% of total rail usage, requiring motors capable of handling heavy loads exceeding 6,000 tons. Additionally, Germany’s focus on sustainability has resulted in over 55% of rail investments targeting emission reduction technologies. Urban transit systems are also expanding, with metro and suburban rail networks serving millions of passengers daily. Approximately 65% of new trainsets incorporate advanced traction motor systems to improve energy efficiency by nearly 20%. 

UNITED KINGDOM Railway Traction Motors Market

The United Kingdom holds approximately 18% share within the European Railway Traction Motors Market, supported by a rail network spanning over 16,000 kilometers. Electrification levels are around 38%, with ongoing projects aimed at increasing this percentage to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Passenger rail dominates the market, accounting for nearly 70% of rail usage, driving demand for advanced traction motor systems. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends in the UK highlight a strong focus on urban transit, with metro and commuter rail systems operating in major cities such as London. Approximately 60% of new rolling stock incorporates AC traction motors, improving energy efficiency by nearly 18%. Additionally, regenerative braking systems are implemented in over 50% of trains, enhancing sustainability. Freight rail contributes approximately 30% of total rail activity, with traction motors designed for heavy-duty operations. The Railway Traction Motors Market Growth is supported by infrastructure investments, with over 25% of transport budgets allocated to rail modernization. Digital technologies are also gaining traction, with nearly 45% of operators implementing predictive maintenance systems. 

ASIA-PACIFIC

Asia-Pacific dominates the Railway Traction Motors Market with approximately 38% share, driven by extensive rail infrastructure development and rapid urbanization. The region operates over 300,000 kilometers of railway track, with electrification levels exceeding 55%. Countries such as China, India, and Japan lead in rail expansion, contributing significantly to traction motor demand. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis shows that over 65% of new rail projects in the region are electrified, increasing the adoption of AC traction motors. High-speed rail networks are expanding rapidly, with trains operating above 300 km/h across multiple countries. Urban transit systems are also growing, with metro networks in over 100 cities driving demand for compact and efficient traction motors. Freight transportation accounts for approximately 45% of rail activity, requiring high-performance motors capable of handling heavy loads. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends indicate increasing adoption of digital technologies, with nearly 50% of operators implementing smart monitoring systems. These technologies reduce downtime by approximately 30%. Government investments play a crucial role, with over 60% of infrastructure budgets allocated to rail development. The Railway Traction Motors Market Growth is further supported by sustainability initiatives, with energy-efficient motors reducing power consumption by nearly 20%. The region’s large-scale infrastructure projects and technological advancements ensure its leadership position in the global market.

JAPAN Railway Traction Motors Market

Japan accounts for approximately 14% of the Asia-Pacific Railway Traction Motors Market Share, supported by one of the most advanced rail systems globally. The country operates over 27,000 kilometers of railway track, with electrification exceeding 75%. High-speed Shinkansen trains require advanced traction motors capable of operating at speeds above 300 km/h. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights highlight that nearly 80% of passenger transport in Japan relies on electric rail systems, increasing demand for efficient traction motors. Approximately 65% of trainsets incorporate regenerative braking systems, improving energy efficiency by nearly 25%. Urban transit systems are highly developed, with metro networks serving millions of passengers daily. Technological innovation is a key driver, with nearly 45% of manufacturers investing in advanced motor designs. Permanent magnet motors are widely adopted, offering efficiency improvements exceeding 30%. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends indicate strong integration of digital monitoring systems, enhancing operational reliability. Japan’s focus on sustainability and efficiency ensures continuous advancements in traction motor technologies. The country’s well-established rail infrastructure and high adoption of advanced systems contribute to its significant market share.

CHINA Railway Traction Motors Market

China holds approximately 45% of the Asia-Pacific Railway Traction Motors Market Share, making it the largest contributor globally. The country operates over 150,000 kilometers of railway track, including more than 40,000 kilometers of high-speed rail, the largest network worldwide. Electrification levels exceed 70%, driving strong demand for advanced traction motor systems. The Railway Traction Motors Market Analysis indicates that over 75% of new trainsets in China are equipped with AC traction motors. High-speed trains operating above 350 km/h require high-performance motors, supporting continuous innovation. Freight rail also plays a significant role, accounting for approximately 50% of cargo transportation. Government investments are substantial, with over 65% of infrastructure budgets allocated to rail development. The Railway Traction Motors Market Growth is supported by urban transit expansion, with metro systems in over 40 cities. Approximately 55% of rail operators have adopted digital monitoring technologies, improving efficiency and reducing downtime. China’s focus on large-scale infrastructure projects and technological advancements ensures its dominance in the Railway Traction Motors Market. The country’s strong manufacturing capabilities further enhance its position as a global leader.

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA

The Middle East & Africa Railway Traction Motors Market accounts for approximately 9% of global share, driven by emerging rail infrastructure projects and urban transit development. The region operates over 80,000 kilometers of railway track, with electrification levels around 20%, indicating significant growth potential. The Railway Traction Motors Market Insights highlight that over 40% of new rail projects in the region focus on electrification, increasing demand for traction motors. Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in high-speed rail and metro systems, with trains operating at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. Freight transportation plays a crucial role, accounting for nearly 35% of rail activity. The Railway Traction Motors Market Trends indicate increasing adoption of advanced motor technologies to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. Approximately 30% of locomotives are undergoing upgrades to incorporate modern traction systems. Government initiatives are driving growth, with over 50% of transportation budgets allocated to rail projects. The Railway Traction Motors Market Opportunities are further supported by urbanization and economic diversification efforts. Digital technologies are gradually being adopted, with nearly 25% of operators implementing smart monitoring systems to enhance performance and reliability.

List of Key Railway Traction Motors Market Companies

• ABB
• Alstom
• Siemens
• Bombardier
• Hyundai Rotem Company
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• Skoda Transportation
• Hitachi
• Sulzer
• VEM Sachsenwerk

Top Two Companies with Highest Share

• ABB: holds nearly 16% market share with over 58% deployment in electrified rail systems and 49% integration in advanced traction technologies.
• Siemens: accounts for approximately 14% market share driven by 52% adoption in high-speed rail projects and 46% presence in smart traction motor systems.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Railway Traction Motors Market is experiencing strong investment growth, with approximately 61% of governments prioritizing rail electrification and modernization projects. Around 57% of total rail infrastructure investments are directed toward upgrading rolling stock and traction systems, supporting efficiency improvements of nearly 25%. Public and private sector collaboration has increased by nearly 42%, accelerating the deployment of advanced traction motors across passenger and freight networks. Additionally, nearly 48% of rail operators are investing in high-performance motors to enhance operational reliability and reduce maintenance costs by approximately 20%.

Opportunities are expanding through technological innovation, with nearly 53% of manufacturers focusing on energy-efficient motor solutions that reduce power consumption by approximately 18%. Digitalization investments account for nearly 45%, with predictive maintenance systems reducing downtime by around 30%. Emerging economies contribute to approximately 37% of new installations due to rapid urban transit expansion and freight corridor development. Furthermore, sustainability initiatives are influencing nearly 50% of procurement decisions, driving demand for low-emission and high-efficiency traction motors across global railway systems.

New Products Development

New product development in the Railway Traction Motors Market is driven by increasing demand for efficiency and compact design, with approximately 56% of manufacturers introducing advanced AC traction motors. These motors improve energy efficiency by nearly 22% and reduce operational losses significantly. Around 44% of new products incorporate lightweight materials, decreasing motor weight by approximately 15% and enhancing acceleration performance in high-speed trains.

Technological advancements are also focused on smart integration, with nearly 47% of newly developed traction motors featuring IoT-enabled monitoring systems. These innovations enable predictive maintenance, reducing failure rates by approximately 28%. Additionally, approximately 41% of manufacturers are developing permanent magnet motors with efficiency levels exceeding 90%, while nearly 38% are focusing on improved thermal management systems to enhance durability and operational lifespan across demanding railway applications.

Developments

• ABB: In 2024, ABB enhanced its traction motor portfolio with efficiency improvements of approximately 21%, while integrating digital monitoring systems adopted by nearly 50% of rail operators, reducing maintenance downtime by around 27% and improving operational reliability significantly.
• Siemens: Siemens introduced advanced traction motor systems in 2024 with nearly 19% higher efficiency, incorporating IoT-based diagnostics in approximately 52% of new installations, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing operational disruptions by nearly 30%.
• Alstom: Alstom developed new lightweight traction motors in 2024, reducing system weight by approximately 14% and improving energy efficiency by nearly 20%, with adoption increasing across approximately 46% of high-speed rail projects globally.
• Hitachi: Hitachi expanded its traction motor solutions in 2024 by integrating smart control systems in approximately 48% of products, improving energy management by nearly 18% and enhancing performance across urban transit systems.
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation: Mitsubishi Electric introduced high-performance traction motors in 2024 with improved thermal efficiency by approximately 23%, supporting adoption in nearly 40% of metro and high-speed rail systems while increasing operational lifespan significantly.

Report Coverage Of Railway Traction Motors Market

The Railway Traction Motors Market Report Coverage provides detailed insights into market structure, segmentation, and technological advancements shaping the industry. Approximately 55% of the report focuses on product innovation, including AC and permanent magnet traction motors that improve efficiency by nearly 20%. Around 48% of the analysis highlights application-based demand across passenger and freight segments, where traction motors play a critical role in enhancing operational performance and reducing energy consumption.

The report also offers comprehensive regional analysis, with Asia-Pacific contributing approximately 38% of market activity, followed by Europe at 27% and North America at 19%. Nearly 46% of the coverage examines market dynamics, including drivers such as rail electrification and restraints such as high installation costs. Additionally, around 43% of the report evaluates competitive strategies, including partnerships and product development initiatives, while approximately 35% highlights emerging opportunities in smart rail technologies and sustainability-focused solutions influencing the Railway Traction Motors Market Outlook.