Bold Names How New Motors Could Transform the EV Industry
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Dec 13, 2024 Rhiannon Hoyle, a WSJ mining and commodities reporter and expert on rare earth elements, joins to discuss the critical role these materials play in electric vehicles. She highlights the environmental and geopolitical challenges of rare-earth mining, particularly China's dominance in the market. Hoyle shares how automakers like Tesla and GM are racing to develop new motors that avoid these toxic materials without sacrificing efficiency. The conversation also touches on innovative solutions and ongoing research aimed at revolutionizing the EV industry.
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Rare Earth Dependence in EV Motors
- Many EV motors rely on rare earth magnets, crucial for efficiency.
- Rare earths, like neodymium and dysprosium, face supply chain issues tied to China's dominance.
Rare Earths' Role in Tech
- Rare earths are crucial for miniaturizing and lightening electronics like EVs and smartphones.
- They enhance motor efficiency, enabling longer EV ranges.
China's 2010 Rare Earth Export Cut
- In 2010, China drastically cut rare earth exports, causing price spikes.
- This highlighted the geopolitical risk tied to China's market dominance.