Modal Motors aims to build electric motors without China-linked rare earth magnets

Van Steenburg argues that other companies attempting to reshore electric motor manufacturing are simply replicating Chinese designs and still depend on rare earth magnets, a domestic supply of which is still years away. Modal Motors is developing two products: a compact motor for drones, fans, blowers, and actuators designed for maximum torque density and efficiency, and a more radical flat, planar design called the "Hybrid Enigma Drive."

With decades of experience in the automotive industry, Van Steenburg is drawing on his background to bring Modal Motors' products to market. He noted the irony of his current work, recalling a late 1990s project on a hybrid gas-electric drivetrain that China had intended for its "People's Car." Van Steenburg expressed concern over China's long-term strategy of acquiring mines and mineral rights globally, leading to its monopolization of the rare earth supply chain.