IIT Delhi develops rare-earth-free EV motors amid China curbs
Chinese export limits on rare earth materials pushed global automakers toward electric motors that avoid these elements. The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi works on designs that reduce or eliminate rare earth dependence. Companies across America, Germany, and Japan develop vehicles without these materials after Beijing tightened controls in October following earlier restrictions in 2018 and 2023.
Tesla reduced heavy rare earth use by one quarter per vehicle while BMW pursues magnet-free alternatives. Mercedes-Benz cut heavy rare earth content nearly to zero in upcoming electric models. Beijing blocked exports of neodymium and dysprosium after President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods in April 2025. The restrictions affected India and other nations dependent on these materials for permanent magnet motors.
China controls half the global rare earth deposits and uses supply restrictions as political leverage. Beijing lifted export bans on rare earth magnets to India in August, but no Indian import applications received approval through early September. Major manufacturers from Tesla to Toyota shift production strategies to reduce vulnerability to Chinese supply disruptions.
