Vimag Labs Secures Fifth Patent for Rare-Earth-Free EV Motor Technology

Vimag Labs , a Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup, has secured its fifth Indian patent for its Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) technology, a rare-earth-free electric motor platform designed to reduce dependence on imported rare-earth materials and strengthen India's electric vehicle ecosystem.

The newly granted patent, titled “A Robust Rotating Transformer Excited Synchronous Motor and Its Control,” covers the core architecture of the company's software-defined motor technology. Unlike conventional EV motors that rely on rare-earth permanent magnets, the VMSM uses software, proprietary control algorithms, copper coils, steel, and power electronics to generate magnetic fields, eliminating the need for rare-earth magnets while aiming to deliver comparable performance and efficiency.

According to the company, prototype motors have achieved 10 kW peak power and 48-58 Nm torque , matching the capabilities of traditional permanent-magnet motors. The technology is currently being tested through pilot projects with two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturers , a passenger vehicle maker, and a European company. Commercial shipments are expected to begin in late 2026 .

Founded in September 2025 , Vimag Labs has raised $5 million in funding led by Accel and other investors. The startup has built a growing intellectual property portfolio comprising five granted patents, 10 patent applications, and 15 trademarks . Co-founder and CEO Manish Seth said the latest patent reflects more than 87,600 engineering hours invested in developing the technology.

Beyond passenger EVs, the company plans to expand the platform for light and heavy commercial vehicles , industrial applications in the 200-600 kW range , as well as sectors such as robotics, defence, and cooling systems . It has also partnered with Jendamark to support future manufacturing scale-up.

The innovation comes as automakers worldwide seek alternatives to rare-earth magnets amid supply-chain concerns. With China accounting for the vast majority of global rare-earth processing and magnet production, Vimag's technology could offer a strategic solution for India's growing EV industry.