This paper presents a novel encoder-less vector control strategy which is universally applicable to both induction motors (IM) and permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM). A fast rotor flux linkage phase estimator using stator flux linkage information obtained by a high-precision approximation voltage integral with error compensation is shown. Using this estimator, the authors construct a unified position/speed sensorless vector control algorithm taking equivalent iron loss resistance into account. All electrical motor parameters used for the control can be measured from unified off-line tests. The proposed universal sensorless vector control is implemented on a 0.4 kW squirrel-cage IM, 0.4 kW interior PMSM with concentrated winding, and 0.3kW surface PMSM with distributed winding. Experimental results of several driving tests demonstrate the validity of the proposed. Index Terms--induction motor, permanent magnet synchronous motor, sensorless vector control, equivalent iron loss resistance 0093-9994 (c)