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§ Private Profile · Washington, United Kingdom
Manufacturer of sustainable, rare-earth-free electric motors for automotive, commercial vehicle, and aerospace applications.
Advanced Electric Machines is a Washington, Tyne and Wear manufacturer that develops sustainable, rare earth free electric motors for the automotive, commercial vehicle, and aerospace industries alongside partners like Bentley. The company produces proprietary powertrain systems, including High Density Switched Reluctance Motors, which eliminate the need for polluting rare earth metals to improve recyclability and environmental impact. Operating from a 1,200 square meter production facility, the enterprise is expanding its manufacturing capabilities to reach a production capacity of 100,000 motors annually. To scale these operations globally, the business secured a £25 million seed round and a £23 million Series A financing backed by investors such as Legal & General Capital, Barclays Sustainable Impact Capital, and Northstar Ventures. The organization was spun out of Newcastle University and founded in 2017 by Dr. James Widmer and Dr. Andy Steven.
Advanced Electric Machines has raised $28.0M across 1 funding round.
Advanced Electric Machines has raised $28.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Advanced Electric Machines has raised $28.0M across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $28.0M Series A in November 2023.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2023 | $28M Series A | Steven Poulter, John Bromley | 7percent Ventures, PAR Equity, LOW Carbon Innovation Fund 2, Northstar Ventures, Turquoise | Announced |
Advanced Electric Machines has raised $28.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Advanced Electric Machines's investors include Steven Poulter, John Bromley, 7percent Ventures, Par Equity, Low Carbon Innovation Fund 2, Northstar Ventures, Turquoise.
Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) is a UK-based technology company specializing in the design and manufacture of sustainable electric motors and powertrain systems primarily for the automotive and transportation sectors. Founded in 2016 as a spin-out from Newcastle University, AEM develops electric motors that eliminate the use of rare-earth materials and copper, addressing critical supply chain vulnerabilities and environmental concerns. Their products serve passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and industrial applications, offering a recyclable, cost-effective alternative to conventional electric motors. The company has demonstrated strong growth momentum, securing over $31 million in funding and establishing partnerships with major automotive suppliers to scale production and expand market reach[1][2][3][6].
AEM originated from pioneering research at Newcastle University’s Centre for Advanced Electrical Drives, led by Professor James Widmer. The founders, Dr. James Widmer and Dr. Andy Steven, launched the company in 2017 to commercialize innovative magnet-free electric motor technologies developed at the university. Early milestones included producing a pre-production motor in 2018 and setting a world record for the longest self-powered flight using their aerospace motor. By 2019, AEM secured significant investment (£25 million+) and moved to a larger facility capable of manufacturing up to 12,000 motors annually. The company’s evolution reflects a commitment to sustainable manufacturing and reducing dependency on rare earth materials dominated by China, positioning AEM as a strategic player in the global EV supply chain[2][4][6].
AEM is riding the accelerating global trend toward electric mobility and sustainable transportation, particularly amid growing concerns about the environmental and geopolitical risks associated with rare earth materials. The timing is critical as the automotive industry seeks alternatives to rare earth magnets, which are largely controlled by China, creating supply chain vulnerabilities. By offering magnet-free, recyclable motors, AEM addresses these market forces and supports the transition to net-zero emissions. Their technology also contributes to the diversification and resilience of the EV supply chain, influencing broader ecosystem shifts toward sustainable manufacturing and circular economy principles[1][4][6].
Looking ahead, Advanced Electric Machines is poised to scale production and commercialize its magnet-free electric motors for passenger and commercial vehicles, with series production targeted by the late 2020s. Trends such as increasing EV adoption, tightening emissions regulations, and supply chain security will shape their trajectory. Their influence may expand as they demonstrate superior motor performance and sustainability benefits, potentially becoming a key supplier in the global EV market. Continued partnerships and innovation will be critical to maintaining momentum and driving broader industry shifts away from rare earth dependency, reinforcing AEM’s role as a leader in sustainable electric motor technology[1][6].