NAGOYA, Japan: Toyota Motor Corporation has announced that it has created a magnet that uses 50%-less neodymium (Nd) and still remains as heat-resistant and usable for various types of electrified mobility.

Also, the Japanese carmaker's new magnet does not contain other rare earth elements that have been deemed critical materials such as terbium (Tb) or dysprosium (Dy) to gives the magnet its high heat-resistance.

Both Tb and Dy are both rare and expensive metals found in locations with high geopolitical risks and have, instead, been replaced by low-cost lanthanum (La) and cerium (Ce) - both abundant and significantly affordable with high heat resistance good magnetising properties.

However, the use of La and Ce does result in a decline in motor performance, but the company assured that it is trying to find a way around it and is dedicating 10 years to further develop it.

During this time, the company is currently seeking other ways to make good use of these newly-created magnets and is keen to put them into their vehicle's electric power steering systems within the next two years.

The new type of magnet is expected to be useful in expanding the use of motors in various areas such as automobiles and robotics, as well as maintaining a balance between the supply and demand of valuable rare earth resources.

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