Ola Electric has achieved a major milestone in the Indian electric vehicle sector by receiving government certification for its in-house developed rare-earth-free ferrite motor. This achievement positions Ola as the first two-wheeler EV manufacturer to gain certification for motors that do not rely on imported rare-earth materials, promising affordability, sustainability, and enhanced performance for consumers.
Ola Electric announced that its ferrite motor has officially received certification from the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) in Tamil Nadu. The certification followed mandatory motor power tests conducted under the AIS 041 notification of the Road Transport Ministry. By obtaining this approval, Ola Electric has set a benchmark as the first two-wheeler EV maker to secure certification for an in-house motor that avoids reliance on rare-earth permanent magnets.
Traditional EV motors use rare-earth elements in permanent magnets, which are expensive and mostly imported. Ola Electric’s ferrite motor eliminates dependence on these materials, significantly reducing production costs and mitigating supply chain risks. This innovation also aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in advanced EV technology and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Ola Electric highlighted that its ferrite motor delivers efficiency, performance, and durability on par with conventional rare-earth permanent magnet motors. The company unveiled the ferrite motor during its annual ‘Sankalp 2025’ event in August.
Key highlights include:
Comparable net power output for both 7kW and 11kW motor variants
Long-term durability and operational efficiency
Cost-effectiveness by removing rare-earth material dependency
The motor’s certification validates that Ola’s technology meets rigorous government-mandated performance standards, paving the way for its integration into the company’s electric scooter lineup.
Following certification, Ola Electric plans to incorporate the ferrite motor across its two-wheeler range. This move is expected to enhance vehicle performance while keeping prices competitive. Consumers can anticipate more affordable EV options without compromising on reliability or efficiency.
Despite the technological breakthrough, Ola Electric’s stock experienced a 1.8% dip in intra-day trading on Monday. Over the past month, the company’s shares have fallen 11.9%. While short-term market reactions have been mixed, the long-term outlook remains optimistic due to the cost and sustainability advantages of the ferrite motor.
Ola Electric’s ferrite motor certification is a significant step for India’s EV ecosystem. By developing a rare-earth-free motor domestically, the company reduces dependence on imported materials, strengthens local manufacturing capabilities, and supports the government’s ‘Make in India’ and sustainable mobility initiatives. This innovation may encourage other EV manufacturers to explore alternative motor technologies and drive overall growth in the Indian electric vehicle market.
Conclusion
Ola Electric’s rare-earth-free ferrite motor certification marks a transformative milestone in India’s EV sector. The technology promises performance, cost-efficiency, and sustainability while reducing reliance on imported rare-earth materials. As Ola integrates this motor into its product lineup, it is likely to shape the future of two-wheeler EVs in India, offering consumers a more affordable and eco-friendly mobility solution.