Vimag Labs Patents Rare Earth-Free Electric Motor Platform for EVs

Bengaluru-based Vimag Labs has secured its fifth Indian patent for an innovative electric motor platform that removes the need for permanent magnets in the rotor. The patented technology introduces a different approach to motor design by relying on software-controlled power electronics to generate the required magnetic field instead of using rare-earth permanent magnets. This development comes as electric vehicle manufacturers increasingly seek alternatives to supply chains that are heavily dependent on rare-earth materials sourced from China.

Vimag Labs introduces Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor technology

The newly patented solution, named the Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM), is protected under the patent titled "A Robust Rotating Transformer Excited Synchronous Motor and Its Control." The technology is engineered to deliver performance comparable to conventional permanent-magnet synchronous motors while maintaining a completely brushless and magnet-free architecture. By replacing permanent magnets with advanced software control and power electronics, the platform aims to improve supply chain resilience without compromising motor efficiency or performance.

Why the patented motor platform matters for electric vehicles

The growing demand for electric vehicles has intensified concerns over the availability and cost of rare-earth materials, which are widely used in permanent-magnet motors. Vimag Labs' approach addresses this challenge by eliminating permanent magnets from the rotor altogether. This design could help manufacturers reduce exposure to fluctuating rare-earth supplies while supporting long-term sustainability goals. The technology also aligns with broader industry efforts to diversify sourcing strategies and strengthen component availability.

Current industry collaborations and commercialization plans

According to the company, pilot programs are already underway with two-wheeler and passenger vehicle manufacturers to evaluate the technology in real-world applications. In addition, Vimag Labs has entered into a manufacturing memorandum of understanding with Jendamark to support future production scale-up. The commercialization effort is further supported by a recent USD 5 million Series A funding round led by Accel, providing additional resources to expand development and manufacturing capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor developed by Vimag Labs?
The Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) is a patented electric motor platform developed by Vimag Labs that removes permanent magnets from the rotor and instead uses software-controlled power electronics to generate the magnetic field. The brushless, magnet-free architecture is designed to achieve performance similar to conventional permanent-magnet motors while reducing dependence on rare-earth materials. The innovation is intended to support more resilient and sustainable electric vehicle manufacturing.