As technology progresses, terms once reserved for textbooks are now becoming well-known to the general public.

The term ‘rare earths’ may not be commonly discussed at the breakfast table, but it has gained familiarity among those interested in cars, particularly since the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and the scrutiny surrounding rare earth materials.

So what exactly are rare earths and what are they used for? Contrary to their name, they are not particularly scarce, and their relevance extends beyond EVs. These metals are already widely used in various technologies commonly found in households, not just in internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.

Rare earth materials consist of 17 metals that appear on the periodic table of elements. In the automotive world, they are best known for their usage in the permanent magnet electric motors of EVs. However, it is important to note that not all car manufacturers choose to use permanent magnet motors to avoid relying on rare earth materials.

These rare earths have intriguing names that are pleasing to say. According to Porsche, which incorporates them in its EV drive motors, neodymium is the most prominent, but dysprosium and terbium are also utilized. Yet, if there are concerns about the sustainability of these materials, why use them at all?

The rationale behind their use lies in their ability to produce the world’s most powerful permanent magnets, generating a magnetic field significantly stronger than regular iron (ferrite) magnets. Porsche explains that its EV motors include magnets consisting of around 30% rare earth metals combined with iron.

These stronger magnets are also smaller and lighter than iron magnets, allowing permanent magnet motors to take up less space and weigh less compared to alternative motors powered by electrical windings instead of magnets.

Regarding rarity, Porsche clarifies that some rare earth materials are more abundant than lead. However, their extraction and processing are considerably more challenging, which in a sense makes them equally difficult to obtain.

EV motors are not the sole or initial application of rare earth materials. In fact, a rare earth material (distinct from precious metals) is used in the catalytic converters of ICE cars, as well as in catalysts for refining petrol and diesel fuels.

These materials are also utilized in the small electric motors present throughout vehicles for the same reason they are used in traction motors: more power in a smaller space.

In addition to cars, rare earths have various behind-the-scenes uses, such as sensor production and glass and mirror polishing. They are also employed in other industries, including computer hard drives, LED screens, and radar technology.