Are IIT-Delhi and Global Automakers Finding Alternatives to China's Rare-Earth Restrictions?
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Synopsis
Discover how China's recent rare-earth restrictions are reshaping the electric vehicle market globally. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi is at the forefront, developing innovative solutions to meet this challenge. Major auto manufacturers are also exploring rare-earth-free alternatives, paving the way for a sustainable future in EV technology.
Key Takeaways
- China imposes restrictions on rare earth elements.
- IIT-Delhi is developing alternative electric vehicle motors.
- Global automakers are innovating rare-earth-free EVs.
- China controls approximately 50 percent of the world's rare earth deposits.
- Beijing's recent curbs have disrupted the supply chain.
New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) China's curbs on rare earth elements are propelling a worldwide shift towards electric vehicle motors that do not rely on these resources, according to a recent report. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi is actively engaged in crafting alternative technologies.
As China attempts to exert control over the global market by limiting the availability of rare earths, leading automotive manufacturers from the US, Germany, Japan, and India are innovating electric vehicles that do not depend on rare earth materials for their batteries, the European Times report indicated.
In India, IIT Delhi is focusing on creating motors that either use significantly reduced amounts of rare earths or eliminate them entirely.
Globally, automotive giants such as Tesla, BMW, General Motors, Borowarner, Jaguar, Land Rover, ZF, Vitesco, Renault, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Bentley are working on models of electric vehicles that do not utilize rare earths.
Tesla has managed to reduce the usage of heavy rare earths by 25 percent in each vehicle, while companies like BMW are advancing towards designs that either avoid magnets or minimize rare earth usage. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz is nearing a 0 percent heavy rare earth content in its upcoming electric vehicle lineup, as per the report.
On October 9, Beijing enforced new restrictions on rare earth elements and associated technologies, following similar actions in 2018 and 2023. These measures disrupted the supply of critical elements like neodymium and dysprosium, which are vital for permanent magnet motors and heightened both political and supply-chain vulnerabilities.
In April 2025, when former US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on products from China, Beijing retaliated by instituting export controls on a range of heavy rare earth materials, targeting the US and other nations, including India, causing challenges for India's automotive sector.
China possesses approximately 50 percent of the world's rare earth deposits, which it reportedly uses to leverage influence over other countries, as stated in the report.
Though in August, Beijing lifted export restrictions on rare earth magnets to India, by September 9, Indian enterprises had yet to receive approval for any import applications, the report highlighted.
Point of View
It is clear that India's initiative through IIT-Delhi to develop alternative solutions is a crucial step towards reducing dependency on China's rare earth supplies. This shift not only enhances India's technological capabilities but also fortifies its position in the global automotive landscape. The collaborative efforts of various nations in this domain signal a significant move towards sustainable and self-reliant automotive solutions.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rare earth elements?
Rare earth elements are a group of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table that are vital for the production of various high-tech devices, including electric vehicle motors, smartphones, and renewable energy technologies.
Why is China important in the rare earth market?
China controls about 50 percent of the world's rare earth deposits and plays a significant role in the supply chain, often influencing global prices and availability through export restrictions.
How is IIT-Delhi contributing to this issue?
IIT-Delhi is actively researching and developing electric vehicle motors that either minimize or completely eliminate the need for rare earth elements, thus promoting sustainable technology.
What impact do China's restrictions have on the global auto industry?
China's restrictions on rare earth elements have led to increased political and supply-chain risks, prompting automakers worldwide to seek alternative technologies and materials.
What are some examples of companies developing rare-earth-free EVs?
Major companies like Tesla, BMW, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz are all exploring designs and technologies that aim to reduce or eliminate the use of rare earths in their electric vehicles.
