Vimag Labs Patents Magnet-Free EV Motor, Eliminating Rare Earth Dependence with VMSM Technology to Secure Supply Chains

July 19, 2026

ACKO Drive India

Overview

Indian deep-tech startup Vimag Labs has secured its fifth Indian patent for a software-defined, magnet-free electric motor platform. Their Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) dynamically generates magnetic fields using power electronics and real-time control algorithms, eliminating the need for rare-earth magnets that pose supply chain vulnerabilities. This technology holds promise for reducing production costs and is currently being piloted with two-wheeler and passenger car OEMs, with plans to expand to commercial vehicles, robotics, and defense sectors.

In Depth

Key Findings

Vimag Labs, an innovative deep-tech startup from India, has secured its fifth Indian patent for a software-defined, magnet-free electric motor platform, paving the way to eliminate reliance on rare-earth magnets in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Their Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) technology leverages power electronics and advanced control algorithms to dynamically generate magnetic fields, thereby entirely negating the need for scarce and geopolitically sensitive rare-earth elements. This breakthrough has significant potential to reduce EV manufacturing costs and enhance supply chain robustness.

Technical / Clinical Details

Vimag Labs’ VMSM employs a fundamentally different operating principle compared to conventional Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) or Induction Motors (IMs). While PMSMs rely on consistently powerful permanent magnets, the VMSM combines copper coils, a steel core, and software-controlled electromagnets to generate magnetic fields only when needed. This ‘Virtual Magnet’ technology allows for precise, real-time control over the motor’s torque, speed, and efficiency. This enables high-performance power transmission while avoiding the use of rare-earth magnets. The company has already conducted pilot tests of the VMSM with two-wheeler and passenger car OEMs, with initial evaluations confirming efficiency and power density comparable to existing motor technologies.

Background & Context

The global EV market is rapidly expanding, but its growth faces challenges due to supply constraints and geopolitical risks associated with rare-earth elements. Rare earths are essential for components like neodymium magnets, with the majority produced in China. Consequently, EV manufacturers are continuously exposed to supply chain instability and price fluctuation risks. Vimag Labs’ magnet-free technology addresses this strategic vulnerability, positioning itself as a groundbreaking solution to accelerate the EV industry’s detachment from rare-earth dependency. This contributes not only to reduced production costs but also to the establishment of a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

Vimag Labs aims to expand its partnerships with Indian and international OEMs as a next step towards the commercialization of its VMSM technology. In addition to current pilot projects in two-wheelers and passenger cars, the company is eyeing applications in commercial vehicles, robotics, cooling infrastructure, and even defense sectors. If widely adopted, this technology could alter the competitive landscape in the EV market, enabling the supply of more affordable and stable high-performance motors. In the long term, it is expected to be a crucial driver in accelerating global advanced manufacturing’s independence from critical material reliance and fostering technological autonomy.

Source: https://ackodrive.com/news/vimag-labs-clears-path-for-magnet-free-ev-motors-with-new-patent/

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