At just 17, he invents an electric motor that could transform EVs—without rare earths

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• From Curiosity to World Acclaim: Meet Robert Sansone
• What Makes This Motor Different?
• A Chain Reaction of Advantages
• The Maker Behind the Motor
• More Than Just a Great Idea

What if the next revolution in electric vehicles is being dreamed up not in a billion-dollar research lab, but on the workbench of a passionate teenager? Buckle up: Robert Sansone, a 17-year-old from Florida, has done exactly that—and the wheels of change may already be turning.

From Curiosity to World Acclaim: Meet Robert Sansone

Robert Sansone isn’t just any high school student. At only 17, he hatched an idea born from his curiosity about the hidden costs of electric motors—namely, their reliance on rare earth materials. This spark of concern led to a full-fledged project with the ambitious goal of shaking up the future of electric cars.

• He designed an innovative new type of electric motor
• His approach forgoes the use of rare earths, tackling both environmental and economic challenges

His work didn’t go unnoticed. In 2022, Robert’s invention scooped up first prize at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, the most prestigious science and tech competition for students globally. Besides earning recognition, Robert took home a $75,000 check—a clear sign that the scientific community was impressed and ready to take notice.

What Makes This Motor Different?

So, what’s under the hood of this headline-grabbing invention? Robert based his motor on a synchronous reluctance model, a concept known in engineering circles and traditionally used for things like pumps and fans. Yet, despite its previous applications, it had never been adapted for electric vehicles—at least, not until now.

Robert’s bold leap involved stripping out permanent magnets entirely. The absence of rare earths makes his design both affordable and environmentally gentler. But it wasn’t just about swapping out parts. In testing, his prototype boasted a 39% higher torque compared to conventional models—meaning it could offer a serious boost in real-world performance. Oh, and no costly or hard-to-find materials required.

A Chain Reaction of Advantages

Why fixate on rare earths? Well, the logic is as direct as a Florida highway:

• Production costs plummet when expensive, hard-to-source materials are removed
• Sustainability improves—great news for the planet
• It cuts reliance on a handful of suppliers (chief among them, China)

For the automotive sector, this could signal a major shift. Creating a supply chain that’s both resilient and environmentally responsible could be a game-changer. Imagine a world where creating a greener vehicle doesn’t mean handing over a fortune for rare resources—Robert’s innovation brings that world into focus.

The Maker Behind the Motor

If you think Robert struck gold with beginner’s luck, think again. This high schooler is anything but a newcomer to invention. He’s already undertaken over 60 personal projects—these range from a robotic hand to a go-kart that hits an impressive 110 km/h. (Take that, neighborhood speed limits!)

His journey toward the motor wasn’t a weekend project, either. Robert spent a full year refining his design, working hands-on with 3D printing, copper, and a steel rotor. This hands-on approach was born from deep-seated curiosity—he’s been questioning the magnetic heart of electric motors since he was little.

• Innovated beyond the classroom, in true maker style
• Devoted a year to bringing his vision to life
• Used accessible materials and tools, emphasizing creativity and determination

More Than Just a Great Idea

Robert’s story is a refreshing testament: innovation doesn’t have to be the domain of mega-corporations or high-tech labs with sky-high budgets. In his hands, creativity, diligence, and a hunger to solve real problems led to something that could push electric mobility into a new era.

If this motor is further developed and scaled up for industrial use, it’s poised to provide tangible benefits—not just for businesses, but also for the environment and society as a whole.

Takeaway? Sometimes, the power to reshape an industry is as simple—and thrilling—as the buzz of an idea in the mind of a teenager. Keep your eyes peeled: the next breakthrough might just be taking shape in an unexpected garage or backyard laboratory near you.