ABB India Launches Rare Earth-Free IE5 Motors

30 Sep 2025 CW Team

ABB India announced an investment of Rs 140 crore to expand and modernise its Low Voltage (LV) motor manufacturing facility in India. Alongside this, the company launched rare-earth-free IE5 ultra-premium efficiency motors.

“These investments reinforce India’s role as a key global manufacturing hub,” said Stefan Floeck, President – IEC Low Voltage Motors, ABB.

The new motors, with power ratings of 45 kW to 1000 kW, operate on both Direct-On-Line (DOL) and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) systems. Their launch comes after China imposed export restrictions on seven rare earth elements critical for permanent magnet motors, disrupting global supply chains.

“These motors combine proven induction technology with ultra-premium efficiency—without relying on rare earths,” said Sanjeev Arora, President – Motion Business, ABB India. The solution helps industries mitigate risks from rare earth shortages affecting automotive, defence and renewable energy sectors.

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