Rare Earth Magnets in the Automotive Industry
Rare earth magnets play a key role in the automotive industry, especially in three main areas: electronic products, safety and stability systems, and in the propulsion of electric and hybrid vehicles. Their use has increased considerably with the development of electronic control systems in modern cars, where more than 40 permanent magnet motors can be found in high-end vehicles.
Applications of rare earth magnets in the automotive industry
Electronic products: They are used in audio systems, instrument panels, lighting and other electronic components in cars.
Safety and stability systems: They are part of ABS, airbags, power and stability control systems, chassis and GPS.
Electric and hybrid vehicles: They are essential for the manufacture of electric motors, chargers and batteries, contributing to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Rare earth permanent magnets, such as Neodymium (Nd-Fe-B), Samarium-Cobalt (Sm-Co) and Alnico (Al-Ni-Co), have enabled the miniaturization of components and increased efficiency in electric motors. The introduction of these magnets in the automotive industry accelerated from 2018 onwards, with mass adoption by manufacturers.
Key advantages of rare earth magnets in the automotive industry
They lighten the weight of the vehicle: Weight reduction is key to improving the efficiency and autonomy of electric cars. Motors with rare earth magnets take up less space and are lighter than those made with ferrite.
They increase power density: Rare earth magnets allow for more efficient batteries, with greater fast-charging capacity and long-term stability.
They improve torque: Motors with rare earth permanent magnets achieve greater energy efficiency and better power delivery.
They contribute to the manufacture of advanced technology: Rare earths are also used in screens, chips and other electronic components of modern cars.
Types of permanent magnets used in the automotive industry
Neodymium magnets (Nd-Fe-B): Noted for their high magnetic force in small sizes, they are essential in compact and efficient motors.
Samarium-Cobalt magnets (Sm-Co): They resist oxidation and are used in sensors and generators.
Alnico magnets (Al-Ni-Co): They withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for generators and high thermal performance applications.
Outlook and global demand
Rare earths are critical to the expansion of the electric vehicle. Companies such as Toyota require more than 10,000 tons of these materials annually for their production of hybrid cars. In addition to the automotive industry, they have applications in sectors such as medicine, energy and electronics, which increases their strategic value globally.
As technology advances, alternatives are sought to reduce dependence on rare earths, but so far, their irreplaceable performance keeps them as key elements in the evolution of the automotive and electronics industries.