An axial flux motor drive unit for an automobile includes a stator defining a core, an output defining an axis of rotation, a first rotor, a second rotor, and a thrust bearing. The first rotor is rotatable about the axis of rotation and is coupled to the output and disposed relative to the stator to create a first air gap. The second rotor is rotatable about the axis of rotation and is coupled to the output and is disposed relative to the stator to create a second air gap. The thrust bearing is coupled to the output and supports axial loads that are substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, and the first rotor is still rotatable about the axis of rotation when the second rotor is inoperable, and the second rotor is still rotatable when the first rotor is inoperable.