Sterling Tools Sparks a Revolution: Magnet-Free Motors Set to Drive India’s EV Future

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 1,100 Views

Sterling Tools Limited, one of India's prominent auto component producers, has announced a significant strategy entry into the electric vehicle (EV) business. Via its subsidiary Sterling Gtake E-Mobility Ltd (SGEM), the firm will produce and sell rare earth magnet-free traction motors for EVs based on patented technology owned by UK's Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) Ltd. This project promises to make India's EV supply chain robust, enable self-reliance, and present a green alternative to traditional motors based on Chinese permanent magnets.

Strategic Collaboration and Technology Transfer

Sterling Tools, through SGEM, has entered into a technology licensing deal with Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) Ltd, UK, for the manufacturing of rare earth magnet-free traction motors at its Faridabad facility in Haryana.
The AEM technology patented allows high-performance motors without the use of rare earth magnets, with zero compromise on weight and size.

Market Impact and Industry Goals

The transition is expected to lessen India's reliance on China for permanent magnets, giving indigenous manufacturers a permanent supply chain solution.
The effort complements the Indian government's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and Make in India missions, aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing and import substitution.

Business Expansion and Future Plans

SGEM will address all segments of the traction motor industry, which is anticipated to grow to around ₹15,000 crore by 2030.
Sterling Tools aims to go beyond motor control units (MCUs) to provide motor and controller solution combos in a single package, targeting the trend of aggregating EV sub-systems.
The tie-up entails co-development of evolved, multifunctional powertrain solutions for a broad array of electric vehicles.

Leadership Statements

Anil Aggarwal, Sterling Tools' Chairman, spoke about the firm's focus on innovation and leadership in EV technology to emerge as a full-fledged solution provider to the sector.

Dr. James Widmer, AEM's CEO, pointed to the collaboration's significance in bringing proven, magnet-free motor technology to Indian customers for emission reduction as well as self-reliance objectives.

Industry-Wide Impact

The project will allow Indian suppliers and automakers to get access to sophisticated EV technology within the country, creating a self-sustainable ecosystem for the automotive industry.

By manufacturing these motors in India, Sterling Tools will promote increased adoption of EVs in India, helping the country achieve its sustainability and zero-emission goals.

Sources: Silicon India, Auto Economic Times, SME Street, Mobility Outlook, EV Reporter, Business Standard, The Week

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