Vent valves with oil- and water-resistant membranes are produced. [Photo/Yongpai app]

Ningbo-based Ningbo Kenuojia New Materials Co has solved a major challenge for electric vehicle (EV) drives: how to safely release heat and pressure from high-speed motors while keeping out water, dust, and oil.

EV drive units can spin up to 20,000 revolutions per minute, generating significant heat and pressure. Traditional venting solutions either fail under such conditions or allow contaminants that can damage sensitive components. To address this, Kenuojia's CEO Zhang Li has focused on developing a specialized membrane that serves as the heart of a new venting system.

"The valve is just the housing; the membrane is what makes it work," Zhang noted.

After more than a year and over 1,300 iterations, Kenuojia perfected a waterproof, oil-resistant membrane that performs reliably under extreme conditions. Installed directly on EV drive housings, the vent system maintains stable operation and extends component lifespan. The innovation secured patents and gave Kenuojia a place in high-end EV supply chains, winning orders from top domestic manufacturers and attracting international partners.

Kenuojia's growth strategy emphasizes technological value over affordability. Last year, domestic sales rose 20 percent and overseas orders grew 10 percent, with Southeast Asia, Europe, and India seeing rapid expansion. Close collaboration with universities has advanced nanocoating and fluorine-free materials, meeting international environmental standards while keeping costs competitive.

"We don't aim to do everything. Perfecting a single membrane gives us the strongest competitive edge," Zhang said.