Modal Motors builds electric motors that need no rare-earth magnets

A startup called Modal Motors is developing electric motors that contain no rare-earth magnets, a move that could significantly reduce the industry's reliance on China, which dominates the global supply of such materials.

The company is focused on producing motors that are small and light, making them particularly suitable for applications including drones, fans and robotic systems — sectors where compact, efficient power units are in high demand.

Rare-earth elements are currently central to the performance of most modern electric motors, and China's grip on their production has long been a strategic concern for manufacturers in the United States and elsewhere. Modal Motors is positioning its technology as a way to break that dependence entirely.