Modal Motors Aims to Eliminate China from Electric Motor Supply Chain
U.S.-based startup Modal Motors is developing electric motors designed to operate without rare earth magnets, seeking to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains.
Modal Motors, a U.S. startup, is developing electric motors intended to circumvent reliance on components sourced from China. The company's focus is on creating motors that do not utilize rare earth magnets, a key material often sourced from China.
Michael Van Steenburg, the founder, has a decade of experience in electric motor development in North America. Modal Motors aims to produce small, lightweight motors suitable for applications such as drones, fans, and robots, positioning itself as an alternative in a market heavily influenced by Chinese manufacturing.
This initiative aligns with broader trends of reshoring manufacturing, particularly in hard tech sectors like robotics and drone technology. By eliminating the need for rare earth magnets, Modal Motors seeks to offer a more secure and geographically diversified supply chain for its products.
Van Steenburg highlighted concerns regarding China's influence over rare earth materials, citing instances where access has been restricted. The company plans to showcase its technology at the upcoming TechCrunch Disrupt event, aiming to attract investment and partnerships for its supply chain-independent motor solutions.