At just 17, Robert Sansone isn’t waiting for an invitation to change the world: he’s just gone ahead and done it. Armed with nothing but determination (and, okay, a 3D printer), this passionate young innovator has developed a revolutionary electric motor—one without any rare earth elements. Cleaner, cheaper vehicles are suddenly on the horizon. The catch? This all happened before he’s even old enough to vote. Let’s take a look at how one teenager pulled off an engineering coup that has the whole world paying attention.
An Award-Winning Discovery
Robert Sansone’s achievement is making waves far beyond his local science lab. At just 17 years old, his breakthrough invention won him first prize at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2022. For those unfamiliar, it’s not just any school fair: it’s the world’s top competition for students in science and technology. The recognition came with a hefty $75,000 check—clear proof that his idea has captured more than just academic interest.
The heart of his project? A synchronous reluctance motor completely free of permanent magnets. While such motors are old news in industrial settings like pumps and ventilation systems, no one has ever optimized them for use in electric vehicles—until now. Sansone’s prototype delivers a torque increase of 39% compared to conventional models, and does so without any rare or expensive materials. That means lower production costs and a big step toward greener, more efficient transportation. If that’s not impressive, what is?
Rare Earths, Rare Problems
Sansone’s decision to eliminate rare earth elements is about more than just saving a few bucks. The extraction of these materials has a significant environmental impact; they’re not called ‘rare’ for nothing. Most of the world’s supply comes from a limited number of countries, with China as the principal exporter. This dependence poses both economic and geopolitical risks, tying the hands of automotive industries worldwide. Imagine a car industry less vulnerable to international disputes, boasting a supply chain far greener and more resilient—it all starts with scrapping the rare earths.
- Lower production costs by avoiding rare, expensive materials
- Greater industrial independence for countries not controlling rare earth supplies
- More sustainable automotive sector with smaller environmental footprint
Sansone’s work doesn’t just make technical sense—it makes world sense. For an industry looking nervously at both its carbon footprint and its strategic vulnerabilities, this is a small revolution spinning at full torque.
The Making of a Young Innovator
You might imagine a secret laboratory, unlimited resources, and a team of experts. Reality check: Robert spent a full year developing his prototype on his own, with a 3D printer, copper, and a steel rotor. That’s it. No million-dollar grants, no sprawling labs. Just passion, focus, and old-fashioned perseverance—a formula more inspiring than any battery chemistry.
Says a lot, considering Sansone already has over 60 personal projects behind him. His track record includes creating a robotic hand and even building a go-kart able to hit speeds of 110 km/h. Engines have been a long-time obsession for him, and he’s been raising questions about magnets in electric motors for years—long before it was the hottest topic in sustainable tech circles.
Toward a Greener, More Affordable Future
What’s most striking about Sansone’s innovation is its lesson: breakthrough ideas don’t require deep pockets or sprawling workshops. His success is living proof that major innovation is possible for those who dare to question, tinker, and persist. If further developed and industrialized, his motor could be a game changer for the electric vehicle industry, delivering tangible benefits for both the economy and the environment.
So, whether you’re driving a shiny EV or just dreaming of a cleaner future, remember that change can come from unexpected places—sometimes even from a teenager’s desk. A small spark of passion, some copper wire, and an untamed curiosity might just be what drives the next big leap in green technology.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
