Ola Electric Becomes First Indian OEM to Get Approval for Ferrite Motor

Ola Electric has secured government certification for its in-house developed ferrite motor, marking the first time an Indian OEM has received approval for a rare-earth-free motor. The motor matches performance of rare-earth permanent magnet motors and will be integrated into Ola’s vehicle lineup.

Ola Electric Becomes First Indian OEM to Get Approval for Ferrite Motor

Ola Electric announced that its ferrite motor had been certified by the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC), Tamil Nadu, following performance tests under the AIS 041 standard prescribed by India’s Ministry of Road Transport.

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What impact does Ola Electric's ferrite motor certification have on the Indian EV market's technological self-reliance?

Ola Electric's certification of its ferrite motor marks a significant step toward technological self-reliance in India's EV market. By developing indigenous technologies, the company reduces dependence on foreign imports, particularly rare-earth materials, which are often subject to supply chain disruptions. This move not only enhances local manufacturing capabilities but also encourages other companies to innovate, potentially leading to a more robust and self-sufficient EV ecosystem in India.

How does the Roadster X series differentiate itself from Ola Electric's previous scooter models?

The Roadster X series distinguishes itself through advanced features such as a mid-mounted motor, chain drive, and the use of flat cable architecture, which improves weight distribution and thermal management. Additionally, it offers multiple battery options and riding modes, enhancing performance and customization. The integration of a brake-by-wire system and MoveOS 5 software further positions it as a more technologically advanced product compared to earlier scooter models in the S1 portfolio.

What are the expected benefits of Ola Electric's certification under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme?

Ola Electric's certification under the PLI Scheme is expected to provide substantial financial incentives ranging from 13% to 18% of the determined sales value until 2028. This support can enhance profitability and encourage further investments in manufacturing and innovation. The company anticipates that these benefits will significantly contribute to its overall financial performance and help solidify its position in the competitive EV market.

What advancements in battery technology are being pursued by Ola Electric?

Ola Electric is focusing on the in-house production of Bharat 4680 cells, which are expected to be utilized in their vehicles starting in the second quarter of FY26. This development is part of their broader strategy to achieve vertical integration in battery production, improving cost efficiency and supply chain reliability. The company is also exploring dry coating technology for battery cells, which could enhance performance and longevity.

What collaborative efforts are being made in India to develop rare earth-free motor technologies?

Numeros Motors has partnered with IIT Bhubaneswar to research and develop motor technologies that do not rely on rare earth elements. This two-year collaboration aims to innovate alternative motor designs using more accessible materials, which would reduce India's dependence on imported rare earths. Such initiatives align with the country's goals for sustainable and locally manufactured electric vehicle components.

Performance Comparable to Rare-Earth Motors

The certification process included mandatory motor power and efficiency tests. According to the results, Ola’s 7 kW and 11 kW ferrite motor variants delivered net power comparable to their rare-earth permanent magnet counterparts.

Reducing Dependence on Rare-Earth Materials

By using a ferrite motor instead of one based on rare-earth permanent magnets, Ola aims to decrease its reliance on imported rare-earth materials, thereby mitigating supply-chain risks and stabilising cost inputs.

Integration Across Vehicle Lineup

With certification in hand, Ola plans to roll out the ferrite motor across its two-wheeler EV models. The firm says the design and performance are ready for commercial deployment.

Significance for India’s EV Sector

This development is notable because, while ferrite motor concepts are known globally, certifying an indigenous design that meets performance standards is a step toward greater technological self-reliance in India’s EV industry.
In a Social Media post, Ola Electric's Bhavish Aggarwal, said, "At Ola Electric, we’ve always believed that India’s EV revolution must be powered by technologies developed and manufactured in our own country. Earlier this year at our annual Sankalp 2025 event, we made a commitment to build and commercially produce a ferrite motor that eliminates the use of rare-earth materials. Today, we’ve delivered on that promise."
Recently, Ola Electric also received certification under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the automobile and auto component sector. The certification, issued by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, applies to all seven scooters in the company’s S1 Gen 3 portfolio.
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