Indian Startup VimagLabs Secures Patent for Rare-Earth-Free Virtual Magnetic Synchronous Motor Technology

Bangalore-based Indian startup VimagLabs has secured its fifth Indian patent for a motor technology that operates without rare-earth magnets. Named the Virtual Magnetic Synchronous Motor (VMSM), this technology uses power electronics and software algorithms to generate magnetic fields, replacing the fixed rare-earth permanent magnets used in conventional permanent magnet synchronous motors. The design enables real-time generation and control of the rotor’s magnetic field while maintaining a brushless, slip-ring-free structure. The technology is suitable for powertrains rated above 3–5 kW and is currently being piloted with two-wheeler and passenger vehicle manufacturers. VimagLabs recently closed a $5 million Series A funding round led by Accel and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Jendamark to advance large-scale manufacturing. The company targets industrial systems in the 200–600 kW range, as well as applications in robotics, defense, and cooling systems. At the core of this solution is the complete virtualization of the magnetic field—replacing physical magnets with software algorithms—to shift from hardware-driven to software-defined motor design. If its performance metrics are validated in mass-production environments, the technology could significantly reduce motor costs and lessen dependence on rare-earth supply chains.