Renault Group avoids the industry standard of permanent-magnet synchronous motors to reduce dependency on foreign materials. While 90% of electric cars rely on magnets, Renault uses electrically excited synchronous motors (EESM). This choice removes the need for rare earths, which are heavily controlled by a single global supplier.

China controls 100% of heavy rare earths and 85% of purified light rare earths. By using a wound rotor instead of magnets, Renault bypasses this monopoly. Current production at the Cléon plant supports models like the Megane E-Tech and the Alpine A290, with the latest 6AK motor delivering 110 kW.

Engineers are now finalizing the E7A motor for 2027. This next generation increases output to 200 kW and shifts to an 800 volt architecture to shorten charging times. The new design is 30% smaller and reduces carbon impact by 30% while maintaining 92% efficiency.

These technical shifts allow the company to maintain a competitive range without relying on China's domestic market priority. The upcoming E7A motor integrates an all-in-one architecture to optimize space and power delivery.