Hitachi Metals developing EV motors with less China rare earths

TOKYO -- Hitachi Metals is working with manufacturers to develop motors for electric vehicles that use fewer rare earth metals, which are largely obtained from China, Nikkei has learned.

The listed subsidiary of Hitachi aims to replace magnets that use neodymium, the strength of which plays a crucial part in making high-performance motors. Hitachi's alternative magnet is expected to boost supply chain resilience.