What Are Rare Earth Elements, Why Tata Motors Reduced Its Usage?

Tata Motors recently revealed its second-generation Nexon EV, showcasing a remarkable advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology that significantly reduces the car's dependence on rare earth elements (REE) by nearly one-third. This milestone underscores Tata Motors' unwavering commitment to sustainability, emphasizing both cost efficiency and environmental advantages.

So, What Exactly Are These Rare Earth Elements (REE)?

These elements play pivotal roles in more than 200 products, ranging from smartphones and electric cars to flat-screen TVs. They are also vital in the realm of defence technology, finding applications in electronic displays, guidance systems, lasers, radar, and sonar.

Although REEs constitute a relatively small fraction of these products, their importance for proper functionality cannot be overstated. For example, REE magnets, despite being lightweight, enable critical components in computers, spindle motors, and voice coils.

The innovative motor incorporated in the Nexon EV's second-generation design extends the car’s range without the need for a larger battery, significantly reducing its reliance on REEs. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy considering that Tata Motors' first-generation Nexon EV played a pivotal role in the company's achievement of selling over 100,000 electric vehicles in India.

Key REEs such as Neodymium, Terbium, and Dysprosium are commonly employed in electric vehicle motors, particularly in permanent magnet motors. Tata Motors’ concerted efforts to diminish dependence on these elements reflect a broader industry trend among global automakers seeking to minimize their environmental impact while securing a stable supply chain for EV production.

Why This Reduction In Ree Usage, You Might Wonder?

It aligns seamlessly with Tata Motors' steadfast commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This initiative dovetails with the company's strategic shift towards an electric-first approach and its ambitious plans to expand its EV portfolio. Tata Motors is proactively responding to the surging demand for EVs in India by contemplating the establishment of dedicated EV showrooms.

Addressing a significant concern for potential EV buyers, Tata Motors is actively working to bolster the availability of charging infrastructure. The introduction of an extensive battery pack warranty program is a testament to this commitment. With an impressive eight-year warranty, Tata Motors aims to instill confidence and convenience among EV owners. This initiative not only provides peace of mind but also contributes to fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future.

As the EV market continues to evolve, Tata Motors remains unwavering in its dedication to enhancing its EV offerings and driving the shift towards sustainable mobility in India.

Companies Reducing Use Of REE

Nissan Motor Co

The third largest carmaker in Japan started scrapping rare earth magnets from the launch of its Ariya SUV. In 2012, the company produced an electric motor that required 40 per cent less dysprosium; and in 2016 it extended that reduction.

BMW AG

The German brand launched its first electric vehicle iX3 SUV model in 2021 with no rare earth elements in its product.

Toyota Motor Corp

Japan’s Toyota has been reducing rare earths in its electric vehicles. It is still working on that after developing a magnet that used 20-50 per cent less neodymium in 2018.

Volkswagen AG

VW is using permanent magnets with less of two rare earths, terbium and dysprosium. In its all-drive electric models, the company has also started using a permanent magnet motor on the rear axle and one without magnets on the front axle.