Recent concerns about the global environment have spurred a trend toward energy-saving and more-efficient electronic devices, resulting in a shift from wound motors to motors that use permanent magnets, which are expected to grow in popularity.

In particular, the development of magnetic motors for use in energy-saving and more-efficient home electronics as well as electric and hybrid cars that aim to raise fuel efficiency is progressing. Magnetic motors are also garnering attention for use in elevators and the drivetrains of electric vehicles.

There is also potential for the use of magnetic motors in 'cleaner,' energy-conserving injection-molding machines, demand for which has led to the use of electric power in those devices.

Responses to diversity of motors:
 1) Correspond to high performance motors
 2) Minimal vibration and cogging for smooth rotation
 3) Higher efficiency in ferrite magnets, which have excellent cost performance

Magnets that will improve motors' functions are in demand.

The demand for high performance and improvements in magnetic properties of magnets used in motors is constant, making necessary improvements in features and performance other than magnetic properties to enable a wide range of applications and methods.