The race to zero-emissions trucking is on, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. As the industry attempts to balance things like diesel efficiency, low-carbon fuels, and electric powertrains, which are central to the powering of electric vehicles, one historically overlooked factor is starting to get more attention. Rare earth magnets! 

The space between where trucking started—traditional diesel—and where it’s probably going—fully zero emissions—is being referred to by some as “the messy middle.” While much of the current focus is on alternative fuel solutions, the reliance on heavy rare earth magnets in battery electric vehicle (BEV) motors is critical.

Why Heavy Rare Earth Magnets Matter

Magnets containing neodymium, terbium (as mentioned in our last blog on the US terbium initiative), and dysprosium are the key to unlocking the potential of BEV range and addressing range anxiety (i.e., the driver’s fear of making it from point A to point B). These magnets generate the powerful yet efficient motors needed to boost range and reduce energy consumption. Unfortunately, their supply is anything but secure. As we face a global scarcity issue, not to mention environmental issues and geopolitical tensions, the future of BEV hinges on the procurement of these rare earth magnets. Or, alternatively, finding new solutions.

Strategies for Reducing Heavy Rare Earth Dependence

  1. Optimized Magnet Usage – This is one of the exciting areas where AI can make an impact. The goal is for engineers to use AI-driven technology to find new solutions that redefine the limits of magnets. Think of MagNex, a potential new permanent magnet created by UK company Materials Nexus. It used its AI platform to analyze an enormous amount of data about rare-earth composition, providing possible alternatives.
  2. Light Rare Earth Alternatives – Automotive giants like Toyota trying to lead the charge in replacing neodymium with other more abundant materials like lanthanum and cerium. Their hope is to cut neodymium use by a whopping 50%.
  3. Magnet-Free Motors – Induction motors and electrically excited motors might be good options, but we can’t fail to mention that they are roughly 10% less efficient, impacting vehicle range (again, getting from point A to point B). This could mean that hybrid motors, like Tesla’s, may become more common.
  4. Magnet Recycling – Less than 1% of magnets are recycled today. Let that sink in. Thanks to these unbelievably low numbers, the industry is scrambling. Europe is even considering regulations to mandate battery and magnet recycling, but time is of the essence.

Apex Magnets: The Future is Being Written

The future is being written right now. In this high-stakes race, innovation isn’t optional—it’s survival. Remember, rare earth magnets like neodymium are a primary component in electric motors, meaning that even in a zero-emissions future, they will be crucial. No matter what the future holds, we hope our magnets can help manufacturers build a new generation of powerful trucking and transportation. 

Whether you are an individual, part of a small business, or represent a larger company or industry, contact us today or call us with questions at 1-304-257-1193.