MUNICH, Germany—ZF unveiled an electric motor that does not require magnets or rare earth materials, reducing reliance on mining in countries such as China and cutting manufacturing's carbon footprint ...

The problems associated with rare and difficult-to-obtain materials – as used in motors that power EVs as well as batteries – provide a good reason for focusing on recycling and finding alternatives.

Many engineers look at NEMA Premium grade as the gold standard for induction motor efficiency. But technical innovations now make possible even more power-miserly designs. By now, most engineers who ...