Tesla’s rare-earth-free Cybercab motor faces a big test
AgenciesAs Tesla CEO Elon Musk touted the motor of his company’s Cybercab – which, he claims, contains no rare earth elements – debate has emerged over whether the technology could...
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has claimed that the motor of his company's upcoming Cybercab electric vehicle contains no rare earth elements, a statement that has sparked debate over the potential impact on the EV supply chain. While Musk believes the rare-earth-free motor represents a significant technological achievement, experts are skeptical about its ability to weaken China's dominant position in the rare earth market.
China produces about 70% of the world's rare earth elements and controls 90% of its processing capacity, giving it a significant trade advantage in the EV industry. Analysts argue that even if Tesla can scale its rare-earth-free motor technology, it will not completely eliminate the industry's dependence on rare earths, as these minerals are used in various other components of EVs.
Moreover, the Chinese government's tight control over rare earth supply and processing makes it difficult to challenge the country's leverage in the sector.
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