Nissan New Leaf Uses 90% Less Rare Earths as EV Tech Evolves

A Fragile Supply WebA report from Nikkei Asia says Nissan is using 90 percent less rare-earth metals, including dysprosium and terbium, in the new Leaf than in the original model released in 2010. While this reflects advancements in EV motor technology, the reduced reliance also helps limit exposure to rare-earth export restrictions, particularly in China.China dominates the rare-earth supply chain, and while the U.S.-spec Leaf’s direct exposure is unclear, it is still likely tied to that ecosystem. As EV motor technology improves, reducing reliance on those materials could benefit the U.S. by limiting exposure to potential supply disruptions.

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The Original EV EvolvesThe previous-gen U.S.-spec N …