Lucid and Apple Alumni Launch Conifer With Breakthrough EV Motor Tech
A team of former Lucid Motors and Apple electric vehicle engineers has unveiled Conifer, a startup revolutionizing electric hub motors with a rare-earth-free design. The company recently closed a $20 million seed round from prominent deep-tech investors including True Ventures, MaC Ventures, and MFV Partners.
The Conifer Advantage: Sustainable, Efficient, and Compact
Conifer’s innovative hub motor stands out with three key benefits:
- Rare-earth-free design: Uses abundant ferrite magnets instead of scarce neodymium
- Superior performance: Proprietary stator delivers higher efficiency and power
- Compact size: 50% smaller than comparable motors while maintaining output
“We saw a glaring innovation gap in electric powertrains,” said co-founder Ankit Somani. “While billions flowed into battery tech, motor development lagged behind.”
Market Timing and Strategic Applications
Conifer enters the market during a pivotal moment:
- Rising trade tensions make rare-earth alternatives increasingly valuable
- EV adoption grows while battery price reductions plateau
- Demand increases for sustainable manufacturing solutions
The company initially targets small mobility applications with its “drop-in” hub motor design, enabling easy replacement in:
- E-bikes and scooters
- ATVs and off-road vehicles
- Lawn equipment and compact tractors
Manufacturing Innovation: The Microfactory Approach
Conifer plans to implement an automated, localized production strategy:
- Supply chain localization: Building near manufacturing facilities
- Adaptable production lines: Capable of making different motor sizes
- Phased automation: Starting with critical components like stators
“Our motors are significantly less complex than full vehicles,” Somani explained. “This allows us to implement automation strategically rather than all at once.”
Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook
Conifer joins a growing field of motor innovators including Germany’s DeepDrive and Finland’s Donut Lab. The company has already secured several global customers and plans to begin production shipments later this year.
For manufacturers, the appeal lies in Conifer’s simple value proposition: “Swap your existing hub motor for our drop-in replacement and immediately gain 10% range improvement,” Somani said. “The cost-benefit analysis becomes straightforward after that.”
Image: Conifer’s hub motor applications across various vehicle types
📚 Featured Products & Recommendations
Discover our carefully selected products that complement this article’s topics:
🛍️ Featured Product 1: STYLIANO Blue Topaz ring with Peridot, Pink Topaz and Yellow Topaz
Image: Premium product showcase
High-quality styliano blue topaz ring with peridot, pink topaz and yellow topaz offering outstanding features and dependable results for various applications.
Key Features:
- Professional-grade quality standards
- Easy setup and intuitive use
- Durable construction for long-term value
- Excellent customer support included
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
🛍️ Featured Product 2: 2 In 1 Vehicle-mounted Slip-proof Cup Holder 360 Degree Rotating Water Car Cup Holder Multifunctional Dual Houder Auto Accessory
Image: Premium product showcase
Premium quality 2 in 1 vehicle-mounted slip-proof cup holder 360 degree rotating water car cup holder multifunctional dual houder auto accessory designed for professional use with excellent performance and reliability.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading performance metrics
- Versatile application capabilities
- Robust build quality and materials
- Satisfaction guarantee and warranty
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
💡 Need Help Choosing? Contact our expert team for personalized product recommendations!
