Since its launch in 2021, PASSENGER has successfully advanced the development of rare-earth-free permanent magnets. By pioneering innovative technologies that substitute rare-earth elements (REEs), the project directly addresses Europe’s reliance on REE imports, supporting the creation of a stable, sustainable, and resilient European value chain.
These advancements are critical for strategic applications, including electric vehicles and water pump motors, where permanent magnets play a key role.
As the project reaches its final stages, the PASSENGER Final Conference will highlight major achievements, promote European leadership in sustainable magnetics, and explore pathways for market adoption and policy integration.
The event will be held within the SIGN conference, following the successful launch of the EIT RawMaterials Rare Earths & Magnets Strategic Impact Group Network (SIGN) in April. It will gather leading industrial and research stakeholders to advance a resilient and sustainable European Rare Earth and Magnet strategy. A dedicated session will focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, covering various topics such as supply chain diversification and promoting circularity through cross-sector initiatives.
Thematic Focus
Alongside a guided visit to the Mercedes-Benz assembly plant, the programme will explore the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and industrial collaboration. Key topics include:
Alternative magnet and motor technologies
Pathways to diversified and de-risked magnet supply chains in the European Circular Economy
Investment in EU Strategic Projects and international supply chain partnerships
Attracting and nurturing talent for the sector