Yes stepper motors are very closely related to Brushless motors, Both use digital current switching over brushes and commutator. Without the brushes, there is nothing that can wear out in a brushless motor also.
For those who dont know what a brushless(non outrunner) motor is, here is a really breif look at them. In the Layest(new word?) of layman's terms a brushless motor is a brushed motor flipped inside-out. the windings usually found on a brushed motor's armature are replaced by a permanent magnet in the brushless motor. Windings(stator) in a brushless motor are bonded to the inside of the motor can.
Since the current switching of Brushless motors is handled by the speed controller, the commutator, brushes and all associated components arent used in them.. the only moving part is the rotor. Brushless motors are 99% maintenece free.
A note on efficiency from an Industry Leader,
Castle Creations
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The efficiency of a motor determines its quality. Higher efficiency means better design and high quality components. The higher the efficiency of the motor the more power it can produce before it overheats. Here’s a little math, we promise it won’t hurt. Say you are laying down 1,000 watts, (about 1 ¼ horsepower), and your motor is 70% efficient. That means you are turning 300 watts into heat. Ever grab a 300 watt light bulb? If the motor is 85% efficient it only burns 150 watts as heat. More power goes to the wheels and the motor runs cooler and able to put out even more power when needed.
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