Sterling Tools Limited and UK’s Advanced Electric Machines to Manufacture Rare Earth Magnet-Free EV Motors in India

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Image Courtesy: Sterling Tools

Sterling Tools Limited (BSE: 530759, NSE: STERTOOLS), a prominent manufacturer of automotive components and the market leader in Motor Control Units (MCUs), has entered the electric vehicle (EV) motor segment through its subsidiary Sterling Gtake E-Mobility (SGEM). The company has signed a Technology Licensing Agreement with Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) Ltd., United Kingdom for the production of Rare Earth Magnet-Free traction motors for EVs in India.

Under this agreement, SGEM will manufacture AEM’s patented, magnet-free electric motors at its Faridabad facility. These advanced motors match or exceed the performance of conventional motors without the use of rare earth materials, thereby reducing dependence on global supply chains, particularly those centered in China.

This initiative supports domestic production and aligns with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India programs. By offering a commercially viable alternative to magnet-based motors, SGEM aims to strengthen India’s EV ecosystem and accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility.

The collaboration includes plans for joint development of integrated motor and controller solutions, addressing the growing industry demand for compact, multifunctional EV powertrain systems. The traction motor market in India is projected to reach ₹15,000 crore by 2030, and this partnership positions SGEM to address a broad range of segments within this expanding market.

Anil Aggarwal, Chairman of Sterling Tools Limited, stated, “Our entry into Rare Earth Magnet-Free motor technology marks a significant step in Sterling Group’s journey towards becoming a full-fledged EV solutions provider. This partnership underlines our commitment to advancing local manufacturing, promoting self-reliance, and driving innovation in India’s automotive sector. By combining AEM’s technological leadership with our manufacturing strength, we will provide high-performance, sustainable alternatives to the current generation of motors and controllers.”

Dr James Widmer, Co-Founder and CEO of Advanced Electric Machines, commented “India presents a tremendous opportunity for zero-emission technologies. Through our partnership with Sterling Tools, we are bringing sustainable, high-efficiency motor solutions to the Indian market. This collaboration not only addresses environmental goals but also contributes to building a resilient local supply chain. Our long-standing relationship with SGEM has enabled us to align our solutions with the unique needs of the Indian automotive landscape.”

Established in 1979, Sterling Tools Limited (STL) is a leading manufacturer of high-tensile cold-forged fasteners for the automotive and industrial sectors. The company serves OEMs across passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, commercial vehicles, agricultural equipment, and construction machinery. Through its subsidiary SGEM, STL has expanded into the electric mobility space, offering cutting-edge EV components tailored for both legacy and emerging OEMs.

Based in the United Kingdom, Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) is dedicated to designing and producing the world’s most sustainable electric vehicle motors. Originating as a spin-out from Newcastle University, AEM combines expertise in materials science, manufacturing, and engineering design. Its proprietary magnet-free motor technology is protected by 46 international patents, ensuring superior performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness across a broad spectrum of vehicle applications.