Can India reduce its dependence on China for one of the most critical components in electric vehicles? Bengaluru-based startup VIMAG Labs claims it has developed a breakthrough rare-earth-free EV motor that replaces permanent magnets with a software-controlled “virtual magnet” architecture. In this NDTV Exclusive, VIMAG Labs CEO Manish Sehgal explains how the company’s software-driven technology aims to match or even exceed the performance of conventional permanent magnet motors—without compromising on range, acceleration or efficiency. The startup says its motors will be priced competitively, with pilot production of 1,000–10,000 units planned by the end of the year and mass production targeted from next year. Initial deployment will focus on electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, with passenger cars, buses and electric trucks also in the pipeline. With a core patent secured, multiple patents filed, and $5 million in Series A funding, VIMAG Labs is positioning itself as a key player in India’s push for EV self-reliance and reduced dependence on Chinese rare-earth supply chains.