Michael Van Steenburg is pushing the boundaries in electric motor manufacturing, aiming to keep China out of the equation entirely. His startup, Modal Motors, is developing innovative motor designs for drones, fans and beyond, all without relying on rare-earth magnets.

Van Steenburg believes that other companies are merely 'reshoring' by producing motors in the U.S. but still using Chinese components. He argues that a domestic supply of rare-earths is years away and thatModal's approach is more sustainable in the long run.

Among Modal's products is the 'Hybrid Enigma Drive', a flat electric motor designed for compact spaces. Van Steenburg’s background in automotive industry hybrid technology provides a unique perspective, as he recalls working on a project in China that was later shelved.

Reflecting on the years of Chinese dominance in the rare-earths market, Van Steenburg views his work as a counter-strategy. 'The clock started ticking 25 years ago,' he says, voicing his strong conviction that the US must take the lead in this crucial technology.

Will Modal Motors succeed in creating a China-free tech industry? Only time will tell, but Van Steenburg is certainly setting the pace.