Japanese firm develops EV motor reducing rare-earth use

Japan-based advanced mobility and automotive components supplier Astemo said it has developed an electric vehicle motor that notably reduces the use of rare-earth metals, thereby cutting dependence on these materials, NHK World reported.

According to the company, the new motor uses a synchronous reluctance architecture with rare-earth-free magnets in the main drive to achieve competitive output, enabling reduced reliance on neodymium-based permanent magnets.

Astemo aims to begin commercial production and market release of its new motor around 2030.

China is the world’s largest supplier and producer of critical materials. In October, the country’s Commerce Ministry announced new rules requiring foreign companies to obtain government approval to export products containing rare earths and to disclose the intended use of these materials.