Ziehl-Abegg has become the first company globally to introduce a high-performance synchronous lift motor that operates without rare earth magnets, ensuring both sustainability and top-tier power output. This innovative technology strengthens the company’s autonomy and guarantees stable production, mitigating the risks posed by geopolitical issues or export restrictions.
The new motor, powered by ferrite magnets, eliminates the dependence on critical raw materials such as neodymium and dysprosium, which are typically essential for high-performance motors due to their superior power density. These rare earth materials are predominantly sourced from China, which has recently imposed stricter export regulations. “We’ve overcome both a technological and strategic challenge,” said Joachim Ley, CEO of Ziehl-Abegg.
Despite the shift away from rare earth magnets, the new motor maintains the same level of performance as its predecessors, all within the same compact size. This breakthrough is particularly significant for high-torque lift applications where smooth operation and energy efficiency are crucial. Ziehl-Abegg’s extensive expertise in electric motor development made this achievement possible, and a patent application has already been filed.
The new size 200 lift motor will be presented at the Interlift trade fair in Nuremberg this year, marking its first international debut. Further expansion of the series to include additional sizes is expected to start in 2026, reinforcing Ziehl-Abegg’s leadership in electric drive technology. “This development ensures we are protected from potential disruptions in rare earth magnet supply,” CEO Ley emphasized.
This latest advancement underscores Ziehl-Abegg’s ongoing role as a technology leader. The company has been at the forefront of innovation for decades, setting industry standards with advancements such as biomimetically optimized fan designs for exceptionally quiet and efficient airflow. With this new motor for lift systems, Ziehl-Abegg continues to solidify its position as a driving force in the field of drive technology.
Founded in 1910 by Emil Ziehl in Berlin, Ziehl-Abegg has grown into a global leader in ventilation, control, and drive technology. The company’s electric motors power a wide range of applications, including elevators and medical devices like CT scanners. Ziehl-Abegg employs 5,300 people worldwide across 17 production plants, 30 companies, and 114 sales offices. The company’s turnover in 2024 was 893 million euros.
Ziehl-Abegg remains a family-owned enterprise, having relocated its headquarters to southern Germany after World War II. Today, it continues to lead the market in innovation, production, and global distribution of advanced electric motor technologies.
