Renault, Valeo and Valeo Siemens eAutomotive to develop rare earth-free electric motor
February 23, 2022
Renault Group and automotive suppliers Valeo & Valeo Siemens eAutomotive have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) wherein they will form a strategic partnership for the design, co-development and manufacture of an automotive electric motor which would eliminate the use of rare earths. The three partners will contribute to the development and production of the two key parts of the electric motor: the rotor and the stator.
Renault will develop and produce the EESM (electrically excited synchronous motor) rotor technology without the use of rare earths. In addition to the supply of components based on each company’s best knowledge base, the overall architecture of the all-in-one electric motor for Groupe Renault will also be designed by the company.
Valeo and Valeo Siemens eAutomotive will develop and produce the stator, which is based on Valeo’s technological knowledge in copper wire assembly. Thanks to its know-how in this field, Valeo is able to generate more power without having to use more electrical energy thanks to the use a higher density of copper in the stator.
Groupe Renault, Valeo and Valeo Siemens eAutomotive are expected to be the first to mass produce a 200 kW electric motor without using rare earths, with production anticipated for 2027. Production of the motor for the automaker’s own needs will be based at Renault Group’s Cléon plant in Normandy, France.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Valeo, whose know-how is recognised the world over,” stated Luca de Meo, Renault Group’s Chief Executive Officer. “Together, we will design and develop a new generation of high-tech electric motors, produced at our Cléon plant. This partnership is further demonstration of our capacity to be at the forefront of the electric revolution taking place in the automotive industry and to anchor the new automotive value chain in France.”
Christophe Périllat, Valeo’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “This strategic partnership will result in a major step forward for electric mobility. Alongside Renault Group, we are creating a new-generation automotive electric motor that eliminates the use of rare earths. This new motor will meet the most stringent environmental requirements and the highest performance standards.”
