Mitsuba Supplies Rare-Earth-Free Sunroof Motors to German Automaker, Aims for Wider Adoption

Published: Jul 31, 2026 17:20

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[SMM Rare Earth Flash] Japan's auto parts maker Mitsuba has begun mass supply of rare-earth-free sunroof drive motors to a German automaker, marking the latest advance in the global automotive industry's push for rare-earth-free solutions. The motor adopts a redesigned magnetic circuit structure and non-rare-earth magnetic materials, achieving torque and durability comparable to conventional products without using rare earth elements such as neodymium. Currently, the product has been installed in multiple car models produced by the German automaker in Europe. Mitsuba plans to extend its rare-earth-free technology to on-board motor products such as wipers and power windows in the future, aiming to reduce supply chain risks and cost fluctuations.

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