Renault Develops Electric Motors Without Rare Earth Elements
Original: Electric motors with no rare earths
Why This Matters
Reduces automotive industry dependence on rare earth materials while maintaining performance
Renault Group continues developing electrically excited synchronous motors (EESM) that eliminate rare earth materials, distinguishing itself in a market where 90% of electric vehicles use magnet-based motors requiring rare earths.
Renault Group has been mass-producing EESM electric motors without rare earths since 2012, starting with the Kangoo Z.E in 2011 and Zoe in 2012. The company's second-generation 6A motor launched in 2021, powering the Megane E-Tech electric with up to 160 kW output. The latest 6AK motor powers the 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech electric with 110 kW output. Renault is developing a third-generation E7A motor for 2027, featuring 200 kW output, 30% smaller size, 92% efficiency, and 800-volt architecture to reduce charging times. The Alpine A390 will feature an innovative three-motor setup with estimated 345 kW combined output.