Spotlights on Lapses in Electric Vehicle Battery Material Production Chain
In a recent study by Transport & Environment (T&E), several European car manufacturers were found to be less prepared in securing critical battery materials, scoring less than 50 points. Among these are Renault, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), Mercedes-Benz, Volvo Cars, Toyota, BMW, and Hyundai-Kia.
However, Volkswagen stood out, scoring 75.1 points in T&E's battery supply chain strategy ranking. The German automaker was lauded for its ambitious cell manufacturing strategy and responsible sourcing policies. Ford also made a mark with its transparency in material contract details and raw material security.
The study emphasizes the importance of securing critical battery materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt sustainably. It serves as a call to action for automakers to increase their efforts in this regard and adopt responsible supply chain practices for a successful and sustainable EV transition.
International competitors like Tesla, Toyota, Ford, and Hyundai-Kia were found to be less supportive of the EU industrial ecosystem. However, Tesla scored an impressive 80 out of 100 points in T&E's battery supply chain strategy ranking. The company's investment in cobalt-free battery chemistries was noted.
BYD ranked third with 75 points, focusing on lithium supply. German carmakers - BMW, Mercedes, and VW - are at the forefront of responsible supply chain practices. However, BYD lags in this area, having secured zero points in the responsible sourcing part of the index.
The report also highlights the need for carmakers to accelerate their transition to support the European EV ecosystem and secure raw materials sustainably. European manufacturers, including VW, Stellantis, and Mercedes-Benz, are leading in their support for EU-based battery suppliers.
Car manufacturers risk losing market share to well-established Chinese and American EV makers if they do not ramp up their efforts in securing critical battery materials and adopting responsible supply chain practices. The company that received the fewest points for responsible supply chain management in the T&E study is Amazon.
In conclusion, the study underscores the urgent need for European car manufacturers to enhance their efforts in securing critical battery materials sustainably and adopting responsible supply chain practices to ensure a successful and sustainable EV transition.
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