Uber Lucid Nuro EV robotaxi to launch in US, scale globally

Uber & Lucid

Uber will deploy a new robotaxi fleet with Lucid and Nuro starting next year. The program launches in a major US city using Lucid Gravity SUVs. The Uber Lucid Nuro EV robotaxi targets scale and lower downtime with a 450-mile range.

Technology, launch, and scale

Lucid, Nuro, and Uber formed an exclusive robotaxi program for Uber's platform. Uber or partners will operate at least 20,000 vehicles over six years. Nuro Driver provides Level 4 autonomy for the Gravity model. The first prototype already operates autonomously at Las Vegas proving grounds.

Lucid selected Gravity to maximize availability with 450 miles per charge. Longer range reduces charging downtime during peak ride demand. Therefore, utilization improves and unit economics may strengthen. However, safety validation and regulatory approvals remain critical gates.

Investment, infrastructure, and supply chain

Uber plans to invest hundreds of millions in Lucid and Nuro. The companies aim to build fast charging and service infrastructure. Meanwhile, Uber Lucid Nuro EV robotaxi deployment could pressure battery supply chains. Demand for high-nickel cathodes and aluminum body materials may rise.

Global rollout hinges on scaling autonomy and local compliance. As a result, deployment will expand beyond the United States in stages. The Uber Lucid Nuro EV robotaxi may catalyze urban fleet electrification. Success could spur similar alliances among automakers and platforms.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This program pairs a long-range EV with mature Level 4 stacks to chase uptime. Watch local permitting, charger density, and service models as scale grows. Procurement discipline will matter if component inflation reappears during the ramp.

Hunan lithium resource discovery lifts China’s LCE outlook

Hunan lithium

Revised deposit metrics and strategic context

The Hunan lithium resource discovery adds a 49mn-tonne lepidolite deposit in Linwu. Authorities estimate 1.31mn t lithium oxide, or 3.24mn t LCE. The ore also contains rubidium, tungsten, and tin. Therefore, the Hunan lithium resource discovery broadens China’s battery raw material base.

Revised national resources and project pipeline

China’s lithium resource estimate now stands at 16.5% of global resources. Revisions reflect new finds in Sichuan, Xinjiang, Qinghai, Jiangxi, Inner Mongolia, and Hunan. Meanwhile, officials still rank China second globally, behind Bolivia. As a result, the Hunan lithium resource discovery strengthens supply diversification across provinces.

Dazhong Mining investments and timeline

Inner Mongolia Dazhong Mining is building integrated mining and processing in Hunan. The 16bn-yuan plan includes ore, lithium carbonate, CAM, and battery plants. Phase one targets 10mn t per year ore and 20,000 t per year lithium carbonate in 2026. Additionally, Dazhong owns the Jiada spodumene asset in Sichuan with 1.48mn t LCE.

This discovery could influence lepidolite processing economics and domestic supply security. Granite-type lepidolite requires energy, reagents, and recovery optimization. However, co-products may offset costs and improve project viability. Therefore, downstream cathode producers could hedge against imported feedstock volatility.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Large lepidolite resources can reshape China’s midstream flexibility if recoveries scale competitively. Execution will hinge on beneficiation yields, reagent costs, and ESG standards. Watch Dazhong’s commissioning cadence and LCE conversion routes through 2026.

Ronbay sodium-ion battery cathode project breaks ground in Hubei

Ronbay

Ronbay sodium-ion battery cathode project construction has started in Hubei today. The 6,000 t per year line represents a 1.2bn yuan investment. However, the company has not disclosed a commissioning date.

Ronbay sodium-ion battery cathode project expands a diversified CAM portfolio. The firm already produces NCM, LMFP, and sodium-ion CAM. Meanwhile, high-nickel NCM remains the company’s core product.

Capacity roadmap and demand outlook

Output reached 137,351 t in 2024, up 34% year on year. Ronbay plans 130,000–150,000 t of CAM in 2025. In 2023, it committed 3bn yuan for 50,000 t per year by 2026.

The company booked a 3,000 t sodium-ion cathode order this year. Global sodium-ion demand may reach 23 GWh in 2025. As a result, two- and three-wheelers and storage will drive early volumes.

Commercial implications for sodium-ion batteries

Sodium-ion batteries promise cost and safety advantages versus LMFP. Resource abundance lowers raw-material risk and improves scalability. Therefore, the Ronbay sodium-ion battery cathode project targets mass-market applications.

Hubei offers logistics access and supplier depth for scale-up. However, customer qualification and procurement cycles may slow adoption. Consequently, initial shipments should concentrate on mobility and stationary storage.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Ronbay sodium-ion battery cathode project signals prudent hedging beyond lithium-based chemistries. Execution will hinge on qualification wins, cost curves, and timely ramp at both 6,000 t and 50,000 t assets.

IXM cobalt force majeure highlights DRC export ban risks

IXM cobalt

Switzerland-based IXM has declared force majeure on its cobalt deliveries from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The announcement follows the DRC government’s decision to extend its cobalt export ban until September. This IXM cobalt force majeure underscores the rising risks in global cobalt supply chains.

Export ban pressures cobalt markets

The DRC cobalt export ban, first enacted in February, was designed to stabilize prices amid oversupply. However, its extension has made it “legally and practically impossible” for IXM suppliers, including Tenke Fungurume Mining and Kisanfu Mining, to ship material. IXM, owned by China Molybdenum (CMOC), said it could no longer meet customer obligations. As a result, no forward deliveries are guaranteed.

Market uncertainty and supply chain risks

The IXM cobalt force majeure does not halt mining production but blocks exports, which could lead to significant stockpiling inside the DRC. Market participants warn that inventories of intermediate products could be exhausted by March if the ban continues. CMOC, the world’s largest cobalt producer, aims to deliver 100,000–120,000t of cobalt this year, but much of it may never reach international buyers.

IXM global head of refined metal Tom Mackay called for “responsibility and certainty” in addressing the ban, reflecting industry frustration over the lack of clarity. The IXM cobalt force majeure highlights the vulnerability of downstream industries — from EV battery makers to aerospace suppliers — to geopolitical and regulatory shocks in the DRC, which controls the bulk of global cobalt output.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The IXM cobalt force majeure represents a structural stress point in critical minerals supply chains. With the DRC holding overwhelming cobalt dominance, the extension of its export ban will likely intensify calls for diversification of supply sources and acceleration of recycling projects in North America, Europe, and Asia.

EVE Energy Malaysia energy storage battery plant advances with 10–15 GWh expansion

EVE Energy

EVE Energy Malaysia energy storage battery plant enters Phase 2 with 10–15 GWh capacity. EVE will invest 8.654bn yuan to build the expansion in Malaysia. Construction will take 2.5 years, targeting completion within 30 months. The project strengthens domestic ESS supply for Southeast Asia and global customers. EVE Energy Malaysia energy storage battery plant also secures LFP feedstock from Jiangsu Lopal.

A Southeast Asia ESS hub takes shape

Phase 1 already produces cylindrical cells for power tools and two-wheelers. The February start-up created EVE’s first overseas battery manufacturing footprint. Its 680mn units per year capacity underpins future ESS scale-up. Meanwhile, Phase 2 focuses on grid-scale LFP batteries for storage. Together, both phases support module makers and utility developers.

Supply chain and technology implications

The LFP platform offers stable chemistry, safety, and competitive cost. Therefore, it suits energy storage systems with long-cycle requirements. Secured cathode supply reduces volatility and enhances bankability for offtake. As a result, EVE can serve ASEAN data centers and utilities. EVE Energy Malaysia energy storage battery plant aligns with regional industrial policy goals.

The Metalnomist Commentary

EVE’s Malaysia move deepens LFP-based ESS capacity outside China and diversifies supply. Execution on timelines, feedstock logistics, and local talent will determine competitiveness against rival gigafactories.

Indonesia-China EV battery joint venture to start output by 2026

PT AnekaTambang

Indonesia-China EV battery joint venture is set to start operations in 2026, marking a milestone in Southeast Asia’s battery industry. PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) and CATL are leading the $5.9bn project, which will significantly expand Indonesia’s role in global EV supply chains. The Indonesia-China EV battery joint venture aims for 15GWh capacity by 2028, supporting up to 300,000 EVs annually.

A $5.9bn integrated ecosystem for battery materials

The joint venture begins with a 6.9GWh capacity, expanding to 15GWh by 2028. Additionally, officials highlighted potential integration with solar panel battery storage, raising capacity to 40GWh. Most of the investment—around $4.7bn—will fund nickel smelters, mining, and precursor plants in North Maluku. Meanwhile, the battery cell project in West Java accounts for $1.2bn of the total budget.

Indonesia’s mineral advantage meets China’s battery expertise

Indonesia holds abundant nickel, cobalt, and manganese, essential for EV batteries, but lacks lithium and advanced technology. Therefore, Antam partnered with CATL to secure the expertise and technology required. By 2026, smelting and hydrometallurgy plants, alongside a nickel-cobalt-manganese precursor facility, are expected to strengthen Indonesia’s midstream value chain. This partnership underscores a growing alignment between Indonesia’s resource base and China’s global battery leadership.

Energy independence and EV market expansion

The Indonesia-China EV battery joint venture could supply batteries for 300,000 EVs annually, potentially reducing fuel imports by 300,000 kilolitres per year. President Prabowo stated that Indonesia could reach full energy self-sufficiency within five to seven years, provided battery production grows to 100GWh annually. As a result, Indonesia is positioning itself not just as a raw material supplier but as an integrated EV hub.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Indonesia’s partnership with CATL cements its role in the global EV battery supply chain. However, success depends on infrastructure, environmental safeguards, and balancing resource nationalism with foreign investment. If executed effectively, Indonesia could become a strategic alternative to China-dominated supply routes.

Tesla Builds First Grid-Scale Battery Storage Plant in China

Tesla Battery Storage

Tesla Expands Megapack Deployment with China Project

Tesla has announced plans to build its first grid-scale battery storage plant in China, leveraging its advanced Megapack battery system. The project, worth 4bn yuan ($560mn), is a partnership with China Kangfu International Leasing and Shanghai's local government. Once operational, the facility will become China’s largest grid-scale battery storage station.

Tesla began producing Megapacks at its Shanghai gigafactory earlier this year. With an annual capacity of 10,000 units — equal to 40GWh — the plant can support large-scale energy storage demand. Each Megapack stores 3.9MWh, enough to power 3,600 homes for one hour.

Growing Role of China in Tesla’s Energy Strategy

Tesla shipped more than 100 Megapacks from Shanghai in the first quarter, primarily to Europe and Oceania. The Shanghai factory complements its 40 GWh/yr facility in California, reinforcing Tesla’s dual-continent approach to scaling energy storage.

Global demand for energy storage continues to rise, driven by renewable integration and declining costs. According to Chinese research institute EV Tank, shipments of storage batteries are projected to climb to 1,550GWh by 2030. This positions Tesla to capitalize on exponential growth in both the Chinese and international markets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Tesla’s move to build a grid-scale battery storage plant in China highlights its strategy to dominate global energy storage. By localizing production and deployment, Tesla strengthens its foothold in the world’s largest energy transition market. However, its reliance on China also exposes it to potential policy and geopolitical risks.

Zambia and US Launch Copper Mine Joint Venture

Zambia Copper Mine

The Zambia copper mine joint venture between US-based Metalex and Zambia’s Terra Metals marks a significant step in bilateral mining cooperation. The two companies launched Lunda Resources, a partnership aimed at developing the Mwinilunga Copper Mine, which is set to become a key contributor to global copper and cobalt supply chains.

Zambia Copper Mine Joint Venture Targets 100,000t Output

The new Zambia copper mine joint venture will process up to 2mn tonnes of ore annually, producing 100,000 tonnes of copper concentrates, copper cement, and cobalt precipitate. Lunda Resources has already invested ZMW 270mn ($1.2bn) in early-stage development. The full project build-out is expected to reach ZMW 2.7bn, including advanced ore processing systems.

Strengthening Zambia-US Mining Cooperation

This partnership reflects a strategic alignment between Zambia and the US at a time when global copper and cobalt demand is surging. Copper remains central to the global energy transition, while cobalt is vital for battery manufacturing. The collaboration between Metalex and Terra Metals sets a new benchmark for cross-border mining partnerships, combining Zambia’s resource wealth with US investment and technology.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Zambia copper mine joint venture highlights how resource-rich African nations are leveraging foreign partnerships to expand mining capacity. By aligning with US firms, Zambia strengthens its position in global supply chains while diversifying investment sources beyond China. This project underscores copper’s critical role in electrification and positions Zambia as a key growth hub in Africa’s mining sector.

California Lithium Project Gains Expedited Permitting Under FAST-41

California Lithium Project

The California lithium project at Hell’s Kitchen has been selected for expedited federal permitting, marking a major step in strengthening the US domestic critical minerals supply chain. The Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council announced the project’s inclusion under the FAST-41 program, designed to streamline approvals for large-scale infrastructure projects critical to national security.

Federal Backing for US Lithium Production

The Hell’s Kitchen Critical Minerals and Power Project near the Salton Sea will become the first US facility to extract and process lithium using geothermal brine. The project aims to produce lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate, both vital for the fast-growing US battery industry. By using geothermal steam and electricity, the plant will generate its own renewable power, reinforcing its role as a model for sustainable mineral extraction.

Reducing US Reliance on Foreign Minerals

The project’s selection reflects a broader federal push to reduce dependence on foreign critical minerals, particularly as global supply risks intensify. China currently dominates the lithium refining sector, but the US government is seeking to diversify supply. Hell’s Kitchen joins several other initiatives on the Federal Permitting Dashboard, a public tool tracking the review process for projects critical to national and economic security.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The inclusion of Hell’s Kitchen under FAST-41 signals strong federal intent to accelerate domestic lithium production. By combining renewable energy with mineral extraction, the project sets a precedent for low-carbon critical minerals production in the US. Its success could help reshape global supply chains while strengthening national energy security.

Dazhong Mining Expands Lithium Resources at Jiada Mine

Dazhong Mining

Lithium Resources at Jiada Mine Increase Significantly

Inner Mongolia Dazhong Mining has revised higher its lithium resource estimates at the Jiada spodumene mine in Sichuan. The mine’s reserves now total 1.4842mn t of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) with an average grade of 1.38pc lithium oxide. This upgrade raises Dazhong’s total lithium resources across its assets to 4.72mn t LCE. The company also operates the Jijiaoshan lithium mine in Hunan province, strengthening its domestic lithium footprint.

Dazhong’s Investment in Lithium Supply Chain Expansion

Dazhong is actively expanding into downstream lithium processing and battery production. The firm is building lithium carbonate and cathode active material production lines, alongside lithium-ion battery plants in Hunan, with an investment of 16bn yuan ($2.2bn). It also plans to develop a large-scale complex in Inner Mongolia with 40,000 t/yr lithium carbonate, 40,000 t/yr lithium salts, 250,000 t/yr lithium iron phosphate, 100,000 t/yr artificial graphite anode material, and 10 GWh/yr lithium-ion batteries. These projects highlight China’s ambition to dominate the entire lithium value chain.

Lithium Market Pressures Despite Long-Term Demand

The lithium market remains oversupplied, pushing prices to multi-year lows despite robust long-term demand forecasts. Chinese lithium carbonate prices are currently at Yn59,800-61,000/t ex-works, down 89pc from the November 2022 peak of Yn561,000-576,000/t. Rising supply from Chinese producers, including new capacity expansions like Dazhong’s, has weighed on spot prices. However, strong demand from electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and emerging battery technologies is expected to support recovery in the medium term.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Dazhong Mining’s resource upgrade and heavy downstream investments underline China’s strategy to secure leadership across the lithium supply chain. While today’s oversupply keeps prices depressed, structural demand from EVs and storage solutions suggests that projects like Jiada will be vital in balancing the global market in the next decade.

T1 Energy Plans 5GW Solar Cell Plant in Texas to Strengthen US Supply Chain

T1 Energy

Texas Facility Marks New Phase for US Solar Manufacturing

T1 Energy announced plans to build a 5GW solar cell facility in Texas, aiming to address critical gaps in the US solar supply chain. The $850mn G2_Austin plant is scheduled to start production by late 2026. This project follows T1 Energy’s acquisition of Trina Solar’s US assets in 2024 and a rebranding from Freyr Battery, which abandoned its $2.6bn battery storage project in Georgia.

The new facility will supply cells to the 5GW G1_Dallas module plant, reducing reliance on imports from Asia. Current US solar cell capacity remains just 2GW, compared to 56GW of module production. This imbalance highlights the urgency of building more domestic cell production.

US Tariffs and Technology Drive Expansion

T1 Energy’s Texas project benefits from US tariffs and tax incentives, which encourage domestic solar manufacturing. The US Commerce Department has imposed anti-dumping duties on PV cells from Southeast Asia to counter circumvention of Chinese tariffs. Meanwhile, T1 Energy will adopt high-efficiency TOPCon technology, which uses n-type polysilicon. This move reflects the global shift from older Perc technology toward higher-performing solar cells.

However, tariff uncertainty has caused the company to lower its module production forecast for 2025 to 2.6–3GW, down from 3.4GW. T1 Energy is also holding off on long-term power purchase agreements until cost visibility improves. Despite these challenges, the Austin facility represents a major step toward reshoring solar cell production and securing domestic supply chains.

The Metalnomist Commentary

T1 Energy’s 5GW solar cell project signals a turning point for US clean energy policy, linking tariffs, incentives, and new technology adoption. If executed successfully, this facility could strengthen US energy independence while setting a precedent for integrated solar manufacturing in North America. However, cost pressures and tariff volatility remain significant risks for long-term stability.

Chevron Joins the US Lithium Hunt

Chevron US lithium

Oil Majors Target Lithium in Smackover Formation

Chevron has officially entered the US lithium sector, joining ExxonMobil and Equinor in exploring lithium-rich brines in the Smackover formation. The oil giant acquired about 125,000 net acres in northeast Texas and southwest Arkansas, where high lithium content in briny groundwater has already attracted major interest.

The company plans to leverage its subsurface expertise to extract lithium from brine, aiming for lower costs and reduced environmental impact compared with hard rock mining or evaporation ponds. Chevron says this effort aligns with its broader strategy to support US energy leadership and build resilient domestic lithium supply chains.

Expanding Lithium Supply Amid Energy Transition

Chevron’s move mirrors a growing trend of oil companies pivoting toward critical minerals to secure positions in the energy transition. Smackover Lithium, a joint venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor, has already announced plans to produce 22,500 t/yr of lithium carbonate by 2028. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil signed a deal in November 2024 to supply up to 100,000 t of lithium carbonate to South Korea’s LG Chem, also sourced from the Smackover formation.

As demand for EV batteries accelerates, the region could become a cornerstone of the US lithium industry. Chevron’s participation underscores the convergence of oil and mining sectors, with traditional hydrocarbon firms now competing in battery materials.

Strategic Implications for US Lithium Supply

Chevron’s lithium strategy emphasizes domestic production to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen critical mineral supply chains. By applying oilfield brine extraction techniques, the company hopes to commercialize lithium with fewer environmental trade-offs.

Industry analysts believe oil companies could soon rival established lithium producers. As independent analyst Joe Lowry noted, “By early next decade, big oil and big mining will replace the likes of Albemarle at the top of the lithium world.”

The Metalnomist Commentary

Chevron’s entry into the lithium market highlights a strategic realignment of oil majors toward critical minerals. The Smackover formation is fast becoming a global lithium hotspot, and Chevron’s move strengthens US ambitions for secure, domestic supply. If successful, this strategy could reshape the balance of power in the lithium industry, positioning oil giants as major players in the battery supply chain.

Australian Government Loan Supports Butcherbird Manganese Mine

Element 25

Butcherbird Manganese Mine Expansion Gains Federal Backing

The Australian government has approved a A$50mn ($32mn) loan package to support Element 25’s Butcherbird manganese mine expansion. The financing consists of a A$42.5mn debt facility and a A$7.5mn overdraft, enabling the company to triple annual concentrate output from 365,000 tonnes to 1.1mn tonnes.

Western Australia’s state government granted project approval in March, allowing Element 25 to target a 2026 production start. However, the company has yet to secure all required capital and continues discussions with potential partners. Element 25 may also raise funds through offtake agreements, royalty streams, and prepayment deals.

Strategic Supply for US and Global Markets

The Butcherbird manganese mine expansion will strengthen Element 25’s role in the global manganese supply chain. The company plans to channel concentrate to its planned 135,000 t/yr manganese sulphate monohydrate refinery in the US, with additional output directed toward steelmakers worldwide.

The US government has already backed Element 25’s refinery project with a $166mn grant, reflecting Washington’s strategy to reduce reliance on Chinese critical minerals supply. Automakers General Motors and Stellantis have also pledged to fund the refinery, ensuring long-term offtake for battery-grade manganese products essential for electric vehicles.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Element 25’s Butcherbird expansion underscores how financing frameworks are reshaping manganese supply chains. With strong support from both Australian and US governments, the project highlights the strategic importance of manganese for steelmaking and battery manufacturing. Partnerships with automakers further illustrate how downstream industries are actively securing upstream resources in the race toward electrification.

China’s Guizhou Kaijin Expands Battery Anode Capacity

Kaijin battery

Expansion Strengthens Position in Lithium-Ion Battery Market

China’s Guizhou Kaijin has expanded its lithium-ion battery anode production capacity to 120,000 tonnes per year. The facility in Tongren city, Guizhou province, began operations in May 2022 with six lines producing 100,000 t/yr. Following upgrades and the installation of two additional lines, trial production for the seventh and eighth lines is set to begin by the end of July.

Kaijin’s sales performance reflects this rapid expansion. Between January and April 2025, the company sold 50,000 tonnes of anode materials, compared with just 10,000 tonnes during the same period in 2023. As a subsidiary of Guangdong Kaijin, one of China’s top five anode producers, the company strengthens its foothold in the global battery supply chain.

NEV Boom Drives Rising Demand for Anode Materials

China’s fast-growing new energy vehicle (NEV) industry is fueling strong demand for lithium-ion battery anode materials. National shipments of anode materials reached 2.12mn tonnes in 2024, up 24% from 2023. This growth aligns with rising NEV production and sales, supported by robust consumer demand and government incentives.

China produced 5.7mn NEVs from January to May 2025, a 45% increase compared with the same period in 2024. Sales also grew by 44% to 5.61mn units. As a result, overall production of power and energy storage batteries rose by 63% year-on-year to 568.1GWh during January-May, according to the China Automotive Battery Innovation Alliance (Cabir).

The Metalnomist Commentary

Guizhou Kaijin’s expansion demonstrates the strategic scaling of China’s battery materials industry in response to surging NEV demand. As global automakers diversify supply chains, Kaijin’s growth reinforces China’s dominance in anode materials. However, international competition and technology shifts, such as LFP adoption, will challenge long-term market positioning.

LG Energy Solution Signs Six-Year Battery Supply Deal with Chery

China Chery

LGES to Deliver 8GWh of Cylindrical Batteries

LG Energy Solution (LGES) has signed a six-year deal with China’s Chery Automobile to supply 8GWh of batteries. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2026, powering around 120,000 electric vehicles. The agreement focuses on LGES’ 46-series nickel-cobalt-manganese cylindrical batteries, which will be installed in Chery’s flagship EV models.

The partnership also leaves room for expansion. LGES indicated that further projects could extend to additional Chery models, reinforcing the growing collaboration between one of South Korea’s top battery producers and China’s state-owned automaker.

Strategic Partnerships in a Competitive Battery Market

The LGES-Chery deal highlights the company’s efforts to secure long-term partnerships amid shifting battery demand. In November 2024, LGES struck a five-year, 67GWh agreement with US EV start-up Rivian, with production centered in Arizona. These contracts demonstrate LGES’ dual strategy of supporting premium EV manufacturers while also pursuing cost-competitive alternatives.

However, the rise of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries has reshaped the competitive landscape. LGES announced it will start mass production of LFP batteries for EVs in the second half of 2025. In parallel, it began mass-producing LFP batteries for energy storage systems (ESS) in the US this June, while partially converting its Wroclaw plant in Europe for ESS applications.

The Metalnomist Commentary

LGES’ deal with Chery underscores the importance of strategic alliances in an increasingly competitive EV battery market. By balancing high-performance nickel-based batteries with cost-efficient LFP solutions, LGES is positioning itself to meet diverse global demand. The company’s ability to maintain utilization rates will hinge on how effectively it scales production and navigates price pressures.

TotalEnergies to Supply 1GWh of BESS to Japan

Gurin Energy

Saft to Power Fukushima’s Energy Transition

TotalEnergies subsidiary Saft will supply over 1GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for Gurin Energy’s renewable project in Japan. The system will include integrated lithium-ion batteries, power conversion units, and energy management platforms. Saft will also oversee installation, commissioning, and servicing, ensuring long-term operational reliability.

The BESS will be deployed in Fukushima Prefecture, delivering 240MW of power in four-hour cycles. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, marking one of Japan’s largest single-site BESS installations. This development highlights Japan’s efforts to stabilize its renewable power grid and enhance supply reliability.

Supporting Japan’s Renewable and Carbon Goals

Japan is targeting 40–50pc renewables in its power generation mix by 2040, up from 27pc today. The country also aims to achieve full carbon neutrality by 2050. Advanced storage solutions like Saft’s BESS are critical to balancing intermittent wind and solar generation.

Meanwhile, large-scale deployments like this project show how international partnerships can accelerate Japan’s clean energy transition. By supporting flexible storage capacity, TotalEnergies and Gurin Energy contribute to reducing reliance on fossil fuels while strengthening grid resilience.

The Metalnomist Commentary

TotalEnergies’ 1GWh BESS project in Fukushima illustrates the growing convergence of global energy players and local renewable developers. Japan’s aggressive carbon neutrality roadmap depends on scalable storage solutions, and this deal positions Saft as a key technology supplier. Investors should watch for how such projects influence Asia’s broader grid modernization strategies.

Ford Starts Battery Pack Assembly in Germany

Ford Battery Pack

Ford Expands EV Production with Cologne Battery Facility

Ford has begun mass assembly of electric vehicle battery packs at its Cologne, Germany plant, marking a major step in the automaker’s $2bn European electrification strategy. The facility will directly align with Ford’s nearby Cologne Electric Vehicle Center, enabling integrated production of the Capri and Explorer EV models, which will deliver ranges of up to 627km and 602km.

The highly automated production line, spanning 2km, uses 180 robots to weld, glue, and assemble the battery housing. Each battery pack consists of 2,775 individual parts and up to 12 modules, underscoring Ford’s commitment to advanced manufacturing efficiency and scale.

Strategic Supply Agreements for EV Battery Materials

Ford has also secured long-term supply deals to ensure stable access to critical materials. In October 2024, LG Energy Solution signed a contract to deliver 109 GWh of batteries from 2026, with terms extending up to six years. Meanwhile, US specialty chemicals firm Albemarle agreed to supply over 100,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide between 2026 and 2030.

These partnerships highlight Ford’s focus on securing raw materials essential for its EV expansion. The agreements align with global trends of automakers locking in lithium and battery supply to mitigate price volatility and ensure future production capacity.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Ford’s Cologne investment reflects the growing importance of localized EV battery production in Europe. By integrating supply agreements with global partners, Ford strengthens its resilience against supply chain disruptions. This strategy not only supports its electrification roadmap but also places it in direct competition with European and Asian automakers accelerating EV deployment.

Zimbabwe to Ban Lithium Concentrate Exports from 2027

Zimbabwe lithium Mining

Government Push for Domestic Processing

Zimbabwe will impose a ban on lithium concentrate exports starting 1 January 2027, according to mines minister Winston Chitando. The policy follows a 2022 ban on raw ore exports and seeks to encourage investment in local processing facilities and battery material plants. Zimbabwe holds Africa’s largest lithium reserves, with Chinese firms already dominating its mining sector.

Two new plants, backed by Sinomine and Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, are under construction and expected to begin operations in 2027. These facilities will produce lithium sulphate, a key intermediate that can be refined into battery-grade lithium hydroxide or lithium carbonate.

Chinese Investment and Global Market Implications

Chinese companies remain committed to Zimbabwe’s lithium sector despite lithium prices falling nearly 90% since 2022. This long-term strategy reflects Beijing’s broader effort to secure critical minerals for its electric vehicle and energy storage industries. The upcoming export ban will strengthen Zimbabwe’s role in global lithium supply chains by shifting the country toward value-added production.

Zimbabwe’s policy aligns with a growing African trend of restricting raw mineral exports to promote domestic industrialization. For instance, Gabon recently announced a manganese ore export ban from 2029, while Guinea, Mali, Tanzania, and the DRC have implemented similar measures for bauxite, gold, and cobalt.

Strategic Positioning in the Global Battery Market

By enforcing the lithium concentrate export ban, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a future hub for processed battery materials rather than a raw material supplier. This policy could attract further downstream investment while also reshaping trade flows, especially for EV and renewable energy supply chains. However, success will depend on whether domestic refining capacity can keep pace with rising demand.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Zimbabwe’s lithium export ban signals a decisive shift toward resource nationalism and value-added production. For global supply chains, this move underscores Africa’s emerging role in shaping critical mineral strategies. Investors and downstream users must adapt to a future where raw materials are less available, but refined products become central to supply security.

PLS Boosts Pilgangoora Lithium Resources by 23% Amid Expansion Plans

Australia’s PLS

Higher Grade and Tonnage Strengthen Global Position

Pilbara Minerals (PLS) has expanded the Pilgangoora lithium resources by 23%, driven by a 10% rise in tonnage and a 12% improvement in grade. This boost elevates Pilgangoora’s standing to match the resource scale of Australia’s Greenbushes, the world’s largest hard-rock lithium mine.

Exploration since September 2023 added 39mn tonnes to measured, indicated, and inferred resources at the Western Australia site. As of 2025, Pilgangoora’s total mineral resource now stands at 446mn tonnes grading 1.28% Li₂O and 122ppm Ta₂O₅. Despite pausing exploration in March 2025 due to cost-cutting, PLS has identified a target of 76–102mn tonnes, indicating further growth potential.

Expanding Spodumene Production Capacity

Pilgangoora’s current nameplate capacity is 680,000 t/yr of spodumene, with Q1 2025 production at 125,000 tonnes—down from 188,200 tonnes in Q4 2024. The P1000 project is set to lift capacity to 1mn t/yr by Q3 2025, while the proposed P2000 project could double output to over 2mn t/yr within six years.

However, weaker market conditions may pressure higher-cost Australian spodumene producers to cut output. PLS’s large-scale, higher-grade reserves could provide a competitive advantage in maintaining production and market share during challenging pricing cycles.

The Metalnomist Commentary

PLS’s expansion at Pilgangoora reinforces Australia’s role as a dominant supplier of hard-rock lithium to global EV and battery markets. With both grade and tonnage growth, PLS is positioned to weather market volatility better than many peers. Long-term, the success of the P2000 project could transform Pilgangoora into one of the largest spodumene producers worldwide.

Yuneng to Expand LFP and LMFP Cathode Capacity to Meet Battery Market Growth

Yuneng

$899 Million Investment Targets Higher Energy Density Materials

Hunan Yuneng, China’s largest lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode active material producer, will significantly expand production capacity to serve surging demand in the lithium-ion battery sector. The company plans to raise 4.8bn yuan ($899mn) for a new project producing 320,000 t/yr of lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP), 75,000 t/yr of ultra-long cycle LFP, and 100,000 t/yr of iron phosphate feedstock.

The LMFP line, located in Anning, Yunnan province, will also be able to produce LFP. Yuneng expects construction to finish within four years. Meanwhile, the ultra-long cycle LFP and iron phosphate plants in Fuquan, Guizhou province, will be built within 12 months, strengthening the company’s diversified product portfolio.

Performance Advantages and Market Competition

LMFP cathodes provide higher energy density, longer driving ranges for EVs, better winter performance, and lower manufacturing costs than standard LFP. However, they have shorter life cycles and weaker charge-discharge capacity. Major players such as CATL, BYD, and Eve Energy are also investing in LMFP technology, intensifying competition in the high-performance cathode market.

Yuneng achieved 101% LFP capacity utilization in 2024, producing 735,462t—up 46% from 2023. Sales reached 710,565t, with 41% directed to the energy storage sector. LFP batteries continue to dominate China’s lithium-ion battery market, holding an 80% production share from January to April 2024, far exceeding the share of ternary chemistries such as NCA/NCM.

Strategic Outlook for Cathode Materials Expansion

By expanding LFP and LMFP output, Yuneng positions itself to capture additional market share as both EV adoption and energy storage demand accelerate. The cost advantage of LFP remains a key factor in China’s battery market dominance, while LMFP technology offers potential for premium applications once lifecycle limitations are addressed.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Yuneng’s investment demonstrates how Chinese cathode producers are racing to scale capacity in response to both domestic and global demand. While LFP will remain the dominant chemistry in China’s battery market, LMFP could emerge as a niche solution for applications requiring higher energy density—if manufacturers can resolve its durability challenges.