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South Korea's Copper-Free Electric Motor: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Mobility

South Korea's innovative motor could revolutionize mobility. Despite current production hurdles, it offers a glimpse into a greener future.

This picture shows a electric machine made of metal and we see a wall.
This picture shows a electric machine made of metal and we see a wall.

South Korea's Copper-Free Electric Motor: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Mobility

South Korea has made a significant stride in sustainable mobility with its latest innovation: an electric motor that doesn't rely on copper or aluminum. This breakthrough, developed by researchers at the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), is being hailed as the biggest leap in mobility by the country.

The motor, a functional prototype, has been successfully tested to power a toy car. Its unique design replaces traditional copper or aluminum coils with carbon nanotubes and an innovative wiring system. This switch not only reduces the motor's weight, enhancing acceleration and decreasing mechanical losses, but also extends battery life due to improved efficiency.

However, the motor's electrical conductivity is currently lower than that of copper, and its production cost is high. Yet, there's hope for wider adoption. If the production of carbon nanotubes becomes cleaner and more efficient, this motor could become a real and scalable option. South Korea envisions a future where this technology reduces the use of copper and aluminum, making mobility more ecologically friendly.

South Korea's copper-free motor, a product of KITECH's research, offers promising prospects for greener mobility. While challenges remain in terms of conductivity and production cost, advancements in carbon nanotube production could make this innovation a reality, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

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