Story perspectives

Automakers Explore Alternatives to China's Rare-Earth Supply

11/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. and European automakers seek substitutes for rare-earth metals used in electric vehicle motors due to China controlling most of the global supply.
China controls most of the global supply and restricted exports this year in response to U.S. tariffs.
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has developed electric vehicles that do not rely on rare earths.
Researchers are exploring new materials with magnetic properties found in meteorites as potential replacements.

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Story summary

U.S. and European automakers seek substitutes for rare-earth metals used in electric vehicle motors due to China controlling most of the global supply.
China controls most of the global supply and restricted exports this year in response to U.S. tariffs.
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has developed electric vehicles that do not rely on rare earths.
Researchers are exploring new materials with magnetic properties found in meteorites as potential replacements.