What is a PMSM motor and why do all Chinese EVs use one?
The motor choice is more consequential than most buyers realise. Here's why PMSM won and what the exceptions are.
Why PMSM won
Efficiency: 94–97% across the operating envelope. Induction motors peak similar but drop into the 80s outside their sweet spot.
Torque density: high — smaller motor for same output. Critical in compact EVs.
Simplicity: no rotor windings, no brushes, minimal wear.
The rare-earth issue
PMSM rotors use neodymium and dysprosium — China controls 60% of mining and 87% of processing. This is a supply-chain risk for non-Chinese OEMs, less so for Chinese ones.
Rare-earth-free PMSM designs (BYD 2024 patent) exist and are ramping — expect broader deployment 2027+.
PMSM + induction hybrid AWD
Xpeng G9, Zeekr 001 AWD, NIO ES6 dual-motor pair a PMSM rear with an induction front. The induction motor freewheels efficiently at highway speed while PMSM does city + acceleration.
- 01PMSM = best efficiency and torque density.
- 02Rare-earth risk is a supply-chain, not an operational, issue.
- 03Some AWDs use hybrid PMSM+induction for range.
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