Modal Motors Aims to Cut China Out of Electric Motor Supply Chains Entirely

Startup Modal Motors is working to remove China from the supply chain for electric motors entirely, developing small, lightweight motors that avoid the use of rare-earth magnets, according to TechCrunch.

The company's motors are designed for applications including drones, fans, and robots, sectors where compact and efficient electric motors are increasingly in demand. Rare-earth magnets, commonly used in high-performance electric motors, are predominantly processed and supplied through China, which controls a significant share of global rare-earth mining and refining capacity.

Reducing Dependence on Chinese Supply Chains

Modal Motors' approach reflects a broader push among Western manufacturers and startups to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled rare-earth supply chains, amid growing concerns in the US and allied countries about supply chain security for critical materials used in defence, electronics, and clean energy technologies.

Details on Modal Motors' specific technology, funding, or timeline for bringing its rare-earth-free motors to market were not fully outlined in the available reporting. The approach, if successful, could offer manufacturers an alternative supply chain less exposed to geopolitical risk tied to rare-earth materials.

The broader rare-earth magnet alternative space has drawn increasing investment interest in recent years as governments and companies seek to diversify away from single-country dependence for critical components.