Key resources powering the energy transition

Electric vehicles (EVs) are not just reshaping our roads—they’re revolutionising cityscapes, energy networks and daily life. Among the unsung heroes of this shift are rare earth metals, especially in the manufacture of powerful magnets. Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov explains their critical role in modern e‑mobility.

Magnets: the heart of EV performance

Electric cars now glide through cities almost unseen, their presence taken for granted. But beneath their sleek exteriors lies a marvel of engineering: compact, lightweight motors powered by rare earth magnets. Without them, achieving high efficiency, acceleration and range would be far more difficult.

“In the electric‑vehicle sector, the most appreciated magnets are those capable of guaranteeing certain very precise improvements. That’s why rare earth metals for electric cars are gaining momentum,” says Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov. He refers to neodymium–iron–boron (NdFeB) magnets—among the strongest available. Their intense magnetic field allows manufacturers to design efficient motors in a small package, though they require added protection against heat and corrosion.

A second class of rare‑earth magnets uses samarium–cobalt. Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov notes: “Another family of magnets made with rare earth elements is the one based on samarium and cobalt. Compared to those made with neodymium‑iron‑boron, they are more resistant to high temperatures and corrosive agents. They are used in extreme contexts, and their cost is generally very high.” Ideal where durability under stress is essential, these magnets come at a premium.

Why rare earths matter

Some Rare earth elements (REEs) are now classified as “critical materials”—hard to replace, hard to source, and often concentrated in a few countries. That makes supply chains vulnerable and geopolitics relevant. The rising demand for EV magnets only heightens their strategic importance.

“A comparison with other types of magnets would not even be possible in these days,” explains Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov. “Ferrite magnets, without rare earths, are much cheaper. They have a lower magnetic density. This can lead to larger and less efficient motors. They are generally used in applications that do not require high magnetic performance.” In contrast, rare‑earth magnets allow EVs to be smaller, quieter, and more efficient—crucially improving range and drivability.

Elements behind the magnets

Among the rare earths in EV magnets:

• Neodymium—chief strength in NdFeB magnets, enabling small, powerful motors.
• Praseodymium—similar to neodymium, but more cost‑effective.
• Dysprosium—adds thermal stability, crucial for maintaining coercivity at high temperatures.
• Terbium—another valuable enhancer for high‑temp performance.

“These metals aren’t just the backbone of EV motors,” adds Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov, “magnets represent only one of their possible applications. In particular, those most involved in the electric mobility sector are four.” Indeed, while small quantities of rare earths appear in battery systems, it is magnet production that truly defines their impact on EV design and efficiency.

Bigger implications for cities and infrastructure

The magnet revolution goes hand‑in‑hand with the expansion of EV charging networks. What was rare a few years ago—public charging—is now commonplace in urban centres, rural areas and along highways. As the founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov observed, this rapid rollout is a visible sign of an epochal energy shift.

Linking renewable energy, electrified transport and rare earth sourcing forms a complex web of change. This transformation challenges established industries, urban planning and international trade patterns. But it also offers enormous environmental and economic benefits—if the supply of these metals remains stable, secure and responsibly managed.

Rare earth magnets, notably neodymium‑iron‑boron with additives like dysprosium or terbium, are more than engineering marvels—they are linchpins of the electric‑vehicle era. As Founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov emphasises, they empower smaller, quieter, longer‑range EVs—and spotlight the urgent need for sustainable rare‑earth supply chains.

Our cities, energy systems and mobility habits are evolving fast. Amid these changes, rare earth metals stand out as the powerful but often invisible force steering us towards a cleaner, electrified future.

 

FAQs

Why are rare earth metals important for electric vehicles?
Rare earth metals are essential in the production of high-performance magnets used in electric vehicle (EV) motors. These magnets provide the strength, efficiency, and compactness needed for modern electric drivetrains.

What types of magnets use rare earth elements?
The two most common types are:

• Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB): Known for high magnetic strength and efficiency, ideal for compact motor designs.
• Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo): More resistant to heat and corrosion, used in demanding environments.

How do these magnets improve EV performance?
Rare earth magnets enable:

• Higher energy efficiency
• Compact and lightweight motors
• Reduced heat generation
• Better acceleration and quieter operation
• Improved range due to energy savings

Which rare earth elements are used in EV magnets?
Key elements include:

• Neodymium – high magnetic strength
• Praseodymium – similar to neodymium, often used in combination
• Dysprosium – enhances thermal stability
• Terbium – provides heat resistance, sometimes used instead of dysprosium

Are rare earth elements used in EV batteries?
Rare earths may appear in small amounts in some battery components, but they are far more critical in motor magnets than in battery chemistry. Lithium, nickel, and cobalt are more central to battery performance.

Why not use non-rare earth magnets?
Alternatives like ferrite magnets are cheaper but less powerful. They result in larger, less efficient motors and are unsuitable for high-performance EVs.