The big news today – there’s a brief news clip already on RareMetalBlog – is that Hitachi has developed an energy-efficient, midsize industrial motor that does not contain any rare earths. The 11kw motor, the product of four years’ work, will be used for air-blowers in factories and buildings as well as in pumps. It will be commercially available by fiscal 2014 – which starts 12 months from now (on April 2013).
Toyota and other Japanese companies are working on other non-REE motor projects. More breakthroughs can be expected – Toyota is hard at work in this space and Mitsubishi Electric Corp and Nidec Corp have combined to commercialize rare-earth-free hybrid vehicle motors. Hitachi competes with Toshiba Corp and Mitsubishi Electric for the top spot in the domestic market for midsize industrial motors. It controls nearly 10 per cent of Japan’s industrial motor market.
In other words, the “reduce, recycle and replace” strategy being adopted by end-users is still in force. It won’t just be the Japanese: expect the South Koreans to be taking a great interest in these developments. South Korea relies heavily on rare earth supplies from China and there is talk in Seoul that the Koreans will by using free trade treaty talks to press for more generous access to Chinese rare earth supplies. What about the Taiwanese?
After all, it was the Chinese restricting exports and then jacking up prices that has brought about this replacement surge. The Chinese are not going to ease those restrictions. Over to you in the Western REE firms.
Every REE explorer/developer is basing their business plans on existing forecasts of demand. If this substitution move gathers pace, then the market in 2016 or 2020 may be not what they’re expecting. Western players must get into rare earth production as quickly as possible to reassure end-users that adequate and reasonably priced supplies will be available.
As the Nikkei report explains, Hitachi’s new motor uses an iron core based on a proprietary amorphous metal. It achieves comparable performance at a sharply lower cost, considering prices of rare-earth metals have skyrocketed since the Chinese government restricted exports.
How Does Western REE Production Compare to China’s REE Production in 2011?
In 2011, China’s rare earth production accounted for approximately 97% of the global supply, while Western REE production was considerably lower. This imbalance raised concerns about China’s dominance in the rare earth market and the potential implications for international trade and supply chain security.
How does China’s role in the production of rare earth elements impact the concept of supply and demand in the global market?
China’s role in the production of rare earth elements significantly impacts the concept of global supply and demand. As the leading producer, China’s supply and demand game directly influences market dynamics and prices worldwide. Other countries are seeking to diversify their sources to reduce reliance on China’s supply and demand game.
What is the impact of Western REE production on the demand estimated in The London REE Report?
The impact of Western REE production on the demand estimated in The London REE Report is significant. As the demand for rare earth elements continues to grow, the production in Western countries will play a crucial role in meeting this demand. The findings of the london rare earth elements report highlight the importance of domestic production in satisfying global REE demand.
How Does Western REE Production Impact Inelastic Demand in London?
The impact of Western REE production on inelastic demand analysis in London is significant. With the fluctuating global supply of rare earth elements, the inelastic demand for these crucial resources has sparked concerns about London’s reliance on Western production. Understanding the interplay between production and demand is crucial for London’s economic stability.
Can the Increase in Western REE Production Affect 802.11 Technology in 2020?
The increase in Western REE production may have a significant impact on 802.11 technology in 2020. As these rare earth elements are crucial for the production of various components used in wireless communication technology, a rise in their availability could potentially lead to advancements and improvements in 802.11 technology.
How Does Europe Resource Nationalism Affect the Trade of Rare Minerals?
Europe’s resource nationalism has put the rare minerals trade in focus. With stricter regulations and limits on exports, Europe’s access to rare minerals is affected. This has led to increased competition and higher prices, impacting the global trade of rare minerals.
Can Playing with Rare Earth Pyre Contribute to Europe’s Resource Nationalism?
Playing with rare earth pyre can contribute to Europe’s resource nationalism by reducing reliance on external suppliers. As Europe seeks to secure its access to rare earth elements, investing in domestic resources like rare earth pyre can bolster its strategic position and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions in the supply chain.
How Can Western REE Production Address Europe’s Call for Resource Nationalism?
Western REE production can address Europe’s call for resource nationalism by investing in domestic mining and production. As Europe aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources, increasing local REE production will enhance resource security and promote economic growth while addressing the issue of europe resource nationalism.
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