The new lift motor, which uses ferrite magnets, eliminates the need for critical raw materials such as neodymium and dysprosium, which have traditionally been considered indispensable for high-performance drives due to their power density. These so-called rare earth elements are sourced almost exclusively from China, a country that has recently tightened its export regulations significantly. “We’ve solved not only a technological challenge but also a strategic one,” explains Joachim Ley, CEO of Ziehl-Abegg.
Technological breakthrough within the existing installation space
Despite foregoing rare earth high-performance magnets, the new motor delivers identical performance – all within the same dimensions. This marks a major advancement, particularly for high-torque lift applications where smooth operation and energy efficiency are critical. The achievement was made possible by Ziehl-Abegg’s profound expertise in electric motor development. A patent application has already been filed.
Debut at Interlift – Series expansion planned from 2026
The new size 200 lift motor will be presented to an international professional audience for the first time at this year’s Interlift trade fair in Nuremberg. Series expansion to include additional sizes is scheduled for 2026. This further reinforces Ziehl-Abegg’s pioneering role in electric drive technology.
“And we are safeguarding our production from potential disruptions caused by shortages of rare earth magnets,” CEO Ley emphasises.
Technology leader across multiple disciplines
With this development, Ziehl-Abegg once again reaffirms its position as a technology leader. For decades, the company has been setting industry benchmarks – whether through biomimetically optimised fan geometries that ensure exceptionally quiet and energy-efficient airflow, or through its targeted use of modern media formats to engage the next generation of skilled professionals. With the introduction of this new motor for lift applications, Ziehl-Abegg further strengthens its leadership in the field of drive technology.
About Ziehl-Abegg
Ziehl-Abegg (Künzelsau, Germany) is one of the leading global companies in the field of ventilation, control and drive technology. In the 1950s, Ziehl-Abegg established the basis for modern fan drives: external rotor motors which even today are still seen as state-of-the-art worldwide. Another area of business is electric motors which provide the power, for example, for elevators or medical applications (computer tomography equipment).
The high-tech company has an impressive innovative capability (all figures and statements refer to the year 2024). Ziehl-Abegg employs 2,800 personnel in its production plants in southern Germany. The company has a global workforce of 5,300 spread between 17 production plants, 30 companies and 114 sales locations. The products, approx. 30,000 in all, are sold in more than 100 countries. Turnover totals 893 million euros.
Emil Ziehl founded the company in Berlin in 1910 as a manufacturer of electric motors. After World War II the company’s headquarters were relocated to southern Germany. Ziehl-Abegg SE is not a listed company but instead is family-owned.
For more information go to www.ziehl-abegg.com/en/
