Rare Earth Elements in EV Motors
The permanent magnets in the most common type of EV motor—the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)—are typically made from an alloy of rare earth elements, iron, and boron, known as NdFeB magnets.3
| Rare Earth Element | Symbol | Function in EV Motor |
| Neodymium | Nd | Core component of the magnet. Provides the extraordinary strength for the magnetic field, enabling a compact, powerful, and efficient motor. |
| Praseodymium | Pr | Often used alongside Neodymium. Frequently alloyed with Neodymium (forming NdPr) to further enhance magnetic strength and performance. |
| Dysprosium | Dy | Improves heat resistance. A "heavy" rare earth element added to the magnet alloy to help the magnet maintain its properties at the high temperatures generated during motor operation. |
| Terbium | Tb | Improves heat resistance. Another "heavy" rare earth element used to boost the magnetic material's ability to resist demagnetization at high temperatures. |
