An electrostatic motor operates based on electrostatic forces, rather than the magnetic forces used by a standard electric motor.

In a regular electric motor, current flowing through coils generates a magnetic field that interacts with other magnetic fields, causing motion. In contrast, an electrostatic motor relies on the attraction and repulsion between charged objects to create motion. These motors typically use fixed charged plates or electrodes to generate a force that moves a rotor, rather than relying on the interaction between current-carrying conductors and magnetic fields. As a result, electrostatic motors tend to be smaller and are often used in applications where minimal mechanical motion or low power consumption is required.

However, we recently had the opportunity to speak with Matt Maroon, CEO of C-Motive, a Wisconsin-based startup seeking to take the technology to new heights.

Enjoy our 20-minute interview with Maroon to learn more about electrostatic motor technologies and his organization's innovative vision.