Demand for Rare Earth in New Energy Vehicles?
2 Answers
New energy vehicles require rare earth elements such as neodymium, lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium oxide, and rubidium. Below is a relevant introduction to new energy vehicles: 1. Definition: New energy vehicles refer to automobiles that utilize unconventional vehicle fuels as power sources (or use conventional vehicle fuels with new types of on-board power devices), integrating advanced technologies in vehicle power control and drive systems, resulting in automobiles with advanced technical principles, new technologies, and novel structures. 2. Product Types: New energy vehicles include pure electric vehicles, range-extended electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, hydrogen engine vehicles, etc.
In new energy vehicles, rare earth elements such as neodymium and dysprosium are widely used, primarily in permanent magnet motors. These motors serve as the power core of electric vehicles, with rare earth magnets enhancing their efficiency, compactness, energy-saving performance, and quiet operation. However, the demand is enormous due to the rapid global increase in new energy vehicle production, requiring vast amounts of rare earths annually. Unfortunately, rare earth mining is environmentally unfriendly, posing significant issues like water and soil pollution. Therefore, I often recommend automakers to develop rare earth-free alternatives, such as some induction motor technologies that are gaining popularity, to reduce dependency. Looking ahead, balancing demand with sustainability would benefit the entire industry. Keeping an eye on these technological advancements is quite fascinating.