Ricardo has successfully designed, tested, and delivered a prototype electric propulsion module that eliminates the use of rare earth elements and copper typically found in conventional electric motors.
Developed as part of the UK-funded Alumotor project, the motor represents a significant innovation in sustainable mobility and electric vehicle propulsion.
The Alumotor prototype is a synchronous reluctance motor that uses aluminum hairpin windings in place of copper. It completely avoids rare earth materials such as neodymium and critical raw materials like cobalt. Oil-cooled for optimal performance, the motor delivers 214kW of power. It achieves greater than 92% efficiency, making it suitable for light commercial vehicles and off-highway applications, with full scalability for other use cases.
Dr Dragica Kostic-Perovic, Ricardo Chief Engineer responsible for the Alumotor project, said: “We are excited to be at the forefront of testing aluminium hairpin windings, and are achieving strong performance data that will support future go-to-market activities. This is a significant development, showing true innovation, and supports our reputation as experts in the design and development of future sustainable technologies.”
The Alumotor project is supported by a consortium led by Ricardo and funded by Innovate UK. The initiative was presented at the Materials and Manufacturing Showcase 2025 in London, where Ricardo highlighted its alignment with sustainable UK supply chain priorities.
About Ricardo
Ricardo plc is a global strategic, environmental, and engineering consulting company listed on the London Stock Exchange. With over 100 years of engineering excellence and nearly 3,000 employees across more than 20 countries, Ricardo delivers innovative cross-sector sustainable outcomes in energy transition, environmental services, and safe, smart mobility. The company provides integrated expertise spanning policy and strategy, product design, and circular economy solutions.
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