In a significant breakthrough for the automotive industry, a British start-up is set to revolutionize electric motor manufacturing by eliminating the need for rare earth metals. Advanced Electric Machines (AEM), a company that originated from Newcastle University, has entered into a lucrative partnership with a leading global car-parts supplier to bring its innovative magnet-free motor technology to mainstream passenger vehicles by the decade’s end.
AEM’s newly established connection with an undisclosed partner, which reportedly generates annual revenues in the tens of billions of pounds, is a testament to the potential of this cutting-edge technology. The collaboration aims to enhance and expand the production capabilities of AEM’s eco-friendly motor design, which relies on abundant materials like steel and aluminum instead of traditional rare earth elements.
James Widmer, co-founder and chief executive of AEM, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, stating, “It’s an enormous opportunity for us and a massive validation of all of the work that we’ve been doing to get this fantastic technology to market.”
AEM’s approach addresses both environmental and geopolitical concerns associated with rare earth metals, such as neodymium and dysprosium, which are often accompanied by adverse ecological impacts during extraction. Widmer highlighted the environmental cost, noting, “For every tonne of these you put out of the ground, 1.4 tonnes of radioactive material comes out as well.”
The reliance on rare earth metals also poses supply chain risks, given China’s dominance in the market. Widmer pointed out that some major companies have faced production halts due to these supply issues, underscoring the strategic advantage of AEM’s alternative. “Major global companies have, for periods over the last six months or so, not been able to build electric motors,” he explained.
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In addition to offering a sustainable solution, AEM’s motors are poised to match or exceed the performance of traditional counterparts. Widmer stated confidently, “We have millions of kilometres of use on our motors, which has proven that the technology works without the magnets, these rare earths. But it’s also actually proven that it outperforms what we’re replacing.”
The UK government’s current efforts to secure rare earth mineral supplies have faced setbacks, such as the abandoned £200 million refinery project by Pensana, highlighting the urgency for alternatives. Widmer criticized current strategies, saying, “The response at the moment from governments around the world seems to be to find more mines and dig more of this stuff out of the ground, which is a very, very bad idea. I think, in general, finding ways where you don’t need these materials is by far the more sensible route.”
AEM, located in Washington, Tyne and Wear, has raised £39 million since its inception and currently employs 50 people. The company is exploring opportunities to expand its production capabilities within the UK, which could lead to job creation in the region. Despite financial challenges, including a dip in turnover and increased losses, AEM has secured a new customer in Germany and established a presence in the US, signaling a promising future.
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Original Story at www.thetimes.com