Modal Motors, led by industry veteran Michael Van Steenburg, is pioneering lightweight electric motors that completely eliminate rare earth magnets, seeking to reduce US dependency on Chinese supply chains for drones, robotics, and other applications.
- Startup develops rare earth-free electric motors optimized for drones and robots
- Founder emphasizes reshoring with tech innovation over replicating Chinese supply chains
- New planar motor design targets space-constrained applications with high torque efficiency
What happened
Modal Motors, a US-based startup founded by Michael Van Steenburg, is working on electric motor technology that does not rely on rare earth magnets, aiming to break free from China's grip on these critical materials. Van Steenburg comes from a decade of experience building electric motors in North America and seeks to reestablish American manufacturing leadership by innovating rather than replicating Chinese designs.
Ahead of its showcase at TechCrunch Disrupt, Modal Motors is developing two key products: a small, lightweight motor suitable for drones, fans, and actuators that maximizes torque and efficiency, and a uniquely flat “Hybrid Enigma Drive” designed to fit in compact spaces. These products represent a strategic shift away from the rare earth-dependent motors that dominate the market.
Why it matters
China's dominance over rare earth minerals has led to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical leverage, which have recently manifested in restricted exports impacting global industries. Modal Motors’ approach to eliminate rare earth magnets from electric motors disrupts this entrenched dependence and provides a path for the US and allied manufacturers to regain autonomy in critical technology sectors.
While other companies attempt to reshore motor production by copying existing Chinese motor designs and hoping for a domestic rare earth mining turnaround, Modal Motors intends to leapfrog this interim period by introducing innovative motor architectures that can be manufactured in the US without relying on scarce materials. This could enable more resilient supply chains in electric vehicles, drones, robotics, and other emerging industries.
What to watch next
The reception of Modal Motors’ products at TechCrunch Disrupt will provide a key indicator of market interest and investor confidence in rare earth-free motor technology. The startup’s ability to prove performance parity or superiority over traditional motors will be critical for adoption in drones and robotics, where weight, torque density, and efficiency are paramount.
Additionally, the pace at which US rare earth supply chains can develop will influence whether innovations like those from Modal Motors become the dominant strategy or remain a niche alternative. Monitoring Modal’s partnerships, funding rounds, and manufacturing milestones will shed light on whether reshoring electric motor production can truly diminish China’s influence over this strategic technology.