Invertek Drives unveiled the Optidrive E4, the latest addition to its globally renowned Optidrive family of variable frequency drives (VFDs), at this year’s SPS Expo 2025 (25th November) exhibition in Nuremberg, Germany.
The Optidrive E4 represents a significant step in Invertek Drives' general-purpose drive technology. It offers the same ease of use and reliability that have defined the Optidrive E3, combined with enhanced diagnostics, improved connectivity, and advanced motor control to meet the demands of modern automation systems.
The E4 delivers a new level of capability for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. It features embedded diagnostics, a built-in flight recorder, dual-channel SIL3 Safe Torque Off (STO), USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity, and Industrial Ethernet communications for real-time integration into connected systems.
In addition to E3 VFD
The E3 remains a VFD for general purpose drives with the E4 providing additional capabilities.
“The Optidrive E4 was engineered to give OEMs and system integrators a smarter, more connected platform without adding complexity,” said Justin Walker, Product Manager for the E4. “From USB-C plug-in setup to embedded diagnostics and mobile app support, we’ve focused on accelerating commissioning and simplifying maintenance, while enhancing control performance across an even wider range of motor types.”
Induction and hybrid permanent magent motors
The E4 has been designed to support both induction motors and hybrid permanent magnet (PMRL) motors, delivering future-proof compatibility with emerging high-efficiency motor technologies. Invertek’s latest precise current control algorithms make this possible, ensuring optimum torque production, superior thermal management, reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI), and a built-in C1 EMC filter.
The drive’s communication architecture has also been modernised. With Industrial Ethernet interfaces, including PROFINET, EtherCAT, and Modbus TCP, the E4 enables real-time data exchange for precision control and diagnostics. This supports predictive maintenance strategies and seamless integration with Industry 4.0 and IIoT systems.
“The E4’s embedded intelligence and network readiness are a direct response to customer demand for drives that communicate, analyse, and adapt,” said Rhydian Welson, Sales and Marketing Director at Invertek Drives. “By combining fast setup, advanced safety functions, and detailed diagnostic insight, the E4 helps users reduce downtime and increase overall equipment effectiveness.”
For service and support, the drive incorporates a QR-code system linked directly to Invertek’s online resources, allowing immediate access to configuration data, manuals, and troubleshooting tools.
Digital Passport
Each Optidrive E4 includes a unique QR code that acts as a Digital Product Passport. When scanned using a mobile device, the code opens the dedicated Invertek app. It provides instant access to detailed information about that specific drive, including its exact build data, specifications, and configuration history.
This feature enables engineers, OEMs, and installers to view a complete digital record of the unit, simplifying commissioning, traceability, and lifecycle support.
The flight recorder continuously logs operational parameters, aiding rapid analysis of events and reducing time to resolution in the event of a system issue.
The Optidrive E4 will initially be available in IP20 enclosures in frame sizes 1 and 2 from Q3 2026, with larger frame sizes following. The Optidrive E3 remains in full production, serving as the company’s core general-purpose drive range.
Adrian Ellam, CEO of Invertek Drives, commented: “The Optidrive E4 demonstrates how Invertek continues to combine ease of use with cutting-edge innovation. It’s the most connected and diagnostic-capable drive we’ve ever produced, ready for today’s automation challenges and tomorrow’s efficiency standards.”
The Optidrive E4 is manufactured at Invertek’s global headquarters in Wales, UK, as part of the company’s ongoing investment in sustainable manufacturing and R&D for advanced motor control solutions.
Technical highlights:
- Embedded diagnostics and integrated flight recorder
- Dual-channel SIL3 Safe Torque Off (STO) meeting PL e/Cat 3 standards
- USB-C and Bluetooth setup, with Android and iPhone app support
- Industrial Ethernet communications (PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP)
- Built-in C1 EMC filter
- Future motor proofed for hybrid PMRL and next-generation high-efficiency motors
- Precise current control for improved torque, efficiency, and EMI performance
- QR-code support for instant documentation and service access
- Proven mechanical design with identical mounting to the E3
For media information, please contact:
Owain Betts, PR and Communications Manager
e: Owain.Betts@shi-g.com t: +44 (0) 7483 072 739
About Invertek Drives
Invertek Drives develops and manufactures variable frequency drive technology used globally to improve motor efficiency and system performance. Its Optidrive family is trusted by OEMs, system integrators and end users across industrial and commercial applications.
Headquartered in Wales, UK, Invertek Drives supplies more than 80 countries through a worldwide network of partners and subsidiaries. The company continues to invest in sustainable manufacturing and advanced motor control innovation as environmental performance becomes increasingly critical to industry.
Invertek Drives is part of Sumitomo Heavy Industries (SHI), enabling integrated expertise in motor, drive and power-transmission solutions across a broad range of sectors.
Optidrive E4 - Variable Frequency Drive
Overview
The Optidrive E4 is a new general-purpose variable frequency drive (VFD) designed to deliver enhanced connectivity, diagnostics and performance for a broader spectrum of motor control applications. It builds on Invertek’s proven Optidrive platform, maintaining fast deployment and ease of use while adding advanced features for modern automation.
Key capabilities
• Embedded diagnostic system with continuous monitoring
• Dual-channel SIL3 Safe Torque Off (STO)
• USB-C and Bluetooth® setup with Android / iPhone app support
• Industrial Ethernet communications: PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP
• Built-in C1 EMC filter as standard
• Compatible with induction and hybrid PMRL motors
• Enhanced current control for stability, efficiency and reduced EMI
• Compact design with identical mounting footprint to the E3
Applications
Suitable for industrial and commercial equipment including pumps, fans, conveyors, compressors and general machinery requiring flexible, dependable motor control.
Diagnostics & intelligence
The Optidrive E4 continuously monitors and records operational parameters, supporting faster issue identification and reduced downtime. Embedded diagnostics improve serviceability without requiring external tools.
Connectivity & integration
Industrial Ethernet support enables seamless integration into connected automation architectures. App-based setup further accelerates commissioning and remote support.
Performance & adaptability
Precise current control improves torque delivery, efficiency and motor thermal performance — supporting both traditional induction motors and emerging high-efficiency permanent magnet technologies.
EMC & compliance
The drive features a built-in C1 EMC filter to simplify compliance, reduce system noise and support installations in sensitive environments.
Availability
• Initial release: Frame Sizes 1 and 2, available from end of Q2 2026
• Expanded range to follow
