Bengaluru: A Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup has developed a magnet-free electric vehicle (EV) motor that could transform India’s EV industry by reducing dependence on China’s rare earth supply chain while delivering high performance through software.
Founded by former automotive manufacturing expert Manish Seth, Vimag Labs began developing the technology after the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains in 2020, leaving critical motor components stranded in China for months.
Software replaces rare earth magnets
Unlike conventional EV motors that rely on permanent magnets made from rare earth materials such as Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB), Vimag Labs has developed a Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) that replaces magnets with copper coils controlled by proprietary software.
The company says its “software-defined magnet” generates magnetic fields electronically, allowing the motor to match—and in some cases exceed—the performance of traditional permanent magnet motors.
Besides eliminating dependence on rare earth magnets, the technology can also improve driving range through software optimisation and receive over-the-air (OTA) updates to enhance performance without changing hardware.
Reducing India’s dependence on China
China currently dominates the global rare earth supply chain, controlling the vast majority of rare earth refining and permanent magnet production used in electric vehicles worldwide.
According to Seth, India’s challenge lies not in mining rare earth minerals but in refining them, a process that is expensive, environmentally challenging and could take years to develop at scale.
By relying on conventional materials such as copper, steel and standard electronics, Vimag’s motors can be manufactured entirely in India using existing industrial capabilities.
Already being tested by EV manufacturers
The startup has secured five Indian patents for its motor technology and is currently working with leading electric two-wheeler, three-wheeler and passenger vehicle manufacturers in India, while also collaborating with European automotive suppliers.
Vimag expects to ship between 1,000 and 10,000 motors by the end of the year as it gradually scales production following its $5 million Series A funding led by Accel.
The company is also exploring applications in electric trucks, buses, defence technologies and future semiconductor development, aiming to position India as a global leader in deep-tech innovation.