https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/money/2018/02/17/proterra-...

https://www.greenvilleonline.com/st...erest-cities-invest-clean-transit/1025854001/
Proterra electric buses experience surge of interest as cities invest in clean transit
Anna B. Mitchell, [email protected] Published 8:45 a.m. ET Feb. 17, 2018 | Updated 10:53 a.m. ET Feb. 26, 2018

This is an in-depth look at Proterra from an hometown reporter standpoint.

But, do they use NdFeB-based traction motors?
They don't manufacture them; they use UQM traction motors.

UQM is the company who led the way researching a rare-earth-free motor (DOE grant, IIRC) after the 2011 China BS move.  They got the patent in 2015.  I made some profit, ticker UQM, coincidentally.

Anyhow, I look through UQM data and find nothing on NdFeB (permanent magnets, yes), but I'm like 90% certain they do, based on descriptions and technical specs they provide for their motors.   Like emphasizing their torque density and lightness; mentioning how tey use less magnet material more effectively; revealing their oil cooling system keeps the magnets at or below 80C.

So, while I don't have definitive proof at this time, I'm going on the basis that Proterra bus sales =  NdFeB demand.