Electric motors with no rare earths
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
Renault uses rare-earth-free electric motors (EESM) in 90% of competing EVs; next generation E7A launching 2027.
Renault Group has mass-produced electrically excited synchronous motors (EESM) since 2012, avoiding rare-earth permanent magnets used in 90% of competing electric vehicles. The company's second-generation 6A motor, introduced in 2021, powers the Megane E-Tech, Scenic E-Tech, and upcoming Renault 5 E-Tech with outputs up to 160 kW. A third-generation E7A motor arrives in 2027 with 200 kW output, 30% smaller size, 30% lower carbon footprint, and 800-volt architecture to reduce charging times.
The strategic driver is supply-chain independence. China produces 85% of refined light rare earths and 100% of heavy rare earths globally, with 90% of permanent-magnet production. By using wound rotors and electromagnets instead, Renault reduces dependence on Chinese supply monopolies. The Cléon plant manufactures all EESM motors for the group's lineup.
What commenters are saying
Commenters confirmed the core mechanism: EESM replaces permanent magnets with electromagnets and carbon brushes for rotor excitation, requiring minimal additional power consumption. Key technical trade-off: these motors are heavier and less mechanically robust than permanent-magnet designs, limiting power output. Nissan, BMW, and Indian manufacturers also produce rare-earth-free motors; BMW's newer designs reportedly reach 300 kW on 800V architecture, but target premium markets unlike Renault's mass-market positioning. Discussion noted EESM technology existed decades prior in AC induction motors and industrial applications, raising questions about automotive adoption timing.