- Renault and Valeo are jointly creating E7A, a rare-earth-free electric motor, to debut in 2027.
- E7A eliminates rare earths, reducing its carbon footprint by 30%, and operates at 800 volts for increased efficiency.
- The motor achieves 200 kW power without a rise in electricity consumption, marking a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology.
Renault and Valeo, two automotive industry leaders, have joined forces to develop the E7A electric motor
Leveraging Renault’s expertise in wound-rotor motors established in 2012, this collaboration aims to create a motor that is not only more powerful and efficient but also environmentally responsible.
At its core, the E7A motor stands out for its rare-earth-free design, a significant departure from conventional electric motors.
Renault and Valeo plan to introduce their pioneering achievement in 2027.
Renault’s groundbreaking approach involves the use of electrically excited synchronous motors (EESMs) pioneered with the ZOE in 2012. By eliminating rare earths from its design, the E7A motor reduces its carbon footprint by 30%. This addresses concerns about environmental impact and resource sustainability.
This strategic move also ensures a stable supply chain by sidestepping dependency on countries that produce rare earths and magnets, enhancing the motor’s reliability.
Furthermore, the E7A motor is engineered for efficiency, operating at 800 volts instead of the industry standard 400 volts. This design modification not only accelerates battery charging times but also boosts the motor’s overall performance. With Valeo’s stator technology complementing Renault’s innovations, the E7A motor achieves up to 200 kW of power without a proportional increase in electricity consumption.
Currently in the prototype stage, the E7A motor is undergoing rigorous refinement to meet industry standards. Mass production is scheduled to commence at Renault Group’s Cléon factory by the end of 2027, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of electric vehicle technology.
This collaborative venture signifies a shift towards more sustainable and efficient electric motors. Building unarguably efficient and environmentally kind motors goes a long way towards making EVs totally sustainable.