Richardson Electronics to manufacture C-Motive ZeroMag motors
Richardson Electronics, Ltd. has partnered with C-Motive Technologies to manufacture the ZeroMag motor platform and Cascade H-Bridge medium voltage drive system, targeting commercial production in 2027. The agreement includes design-for-manufacturing, engineering support, and volume manufacturing services, leveraging Richardson's expertise in power and energy storage solutions.

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Richardson Electronics, Ltd. has been selected by C-Motive Technologies as its manufacturing partner to support the commercialization of C-Motive's innovative ZeroMag motor platform and Cascade H-Bridge medium voltage drive system. This partnership aims to leverage Richardson Electronics' expertise in engineered solutions for power, microwave, and energy storage applications to bring C-Motive's proprietary technologies to market. The agreement targets commercial production beginning in calendar 2027, addressing an addressable market for high-torque, low-speed motors estimated at nearly $3 billion.
Under the agreement, Richardson Electronics will provide design-for-manufacturing (DFM), engineering support, Alpha and Beta pilot production, production test development, quality planning, regulatory support, and volume manufacturing services. These efforts are focused on C-Motive's motor drive controller, a key component of the ZeroMag platform and Cascade H-Bridge system. Manufacturing activities will be conducted primarily at Richardson Electronics' headquarters and manufacturing facility in LaFox, Illinois.
C-Motive's patented ZeroMag motor technology uses electrostatic forces rather than permanent magnets to generate torque, eliminating the need for rare-earth magnets and significantly reducing copper content compared to conventional electric motors. The technology is designed for stationary industrial applications, including direct-drive conveyor systems and high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans, intended to deliver the performance of permanent-magnet direct-drive motors while reducing material costs and supply chain risk.
Key Partnership Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Partner | C-Motive Technologies |
| Products | ZeroMag motor platform, Cascade H-Bridge medium voltage drive system |
| Services Provided | DFM, engineering support, pilot production, test development, quality planning, regulatory support, volume manufacturing |
| Commercial Production Start | Calendar 2027 |
| Manufacturing Location | LaFox, Illinois |
The collaboration is structured to prepare for commercial production beginning in calendar 2027. By combining Richardson Electronics' manufacturing capabilities with C-Motive's innovative motor technologies, the partnership seeks to accelerate the deployment of advanced motor solutions in the market. The ZeroMag motor platform and Cascade H-Bridge system are expected to offer significant advancements in efficiency and performance for medium voltage applications.
What are the potential risks or delays that could push the commercial production timeline beyond 2027?
How will the elimination of rare-earth magnets impact the cost competitiveness of ZeroMag motors compared to traditional alternatives?
Will Richardson Electronics expand its LaFox facility or workforce to accommodate the new production requirements?
























