Reducing Scarce Resource Usage
Hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) emit less CO2 over the lifecycle
of the product than gasoline-powered vehicles, but scarce resources called
rare earths are a necessary component of their motors. Uneven distribution
of rare earth elements and the forces of demand and supply give rise to
concern about price changes, making it important to reduce their usage.
In 2012, Nissan developed a new electric motor that requires 40% less
dysprosium (Dy) compared to conventional EV motors. This motor is
currently used in Nissan LEAF. The motor is only the first step in the
process to limit the use of rare earth elements. Nissan plans to adopt the
reduced-Dy motor for its hybrid vehicles, with the ultimate goal of achieving
zero usage of Dy in other components as well.
Nissan aims to reduce and optimize the usage of other rare earth
elements. The plan is to reduce annual use of rare earth elements by 30%
by fiscal 2016 compared to the projected usage if no particular
countermeasures had been implemented from fiscal 2011 onward.