The availability of minerals has become increasingly relevant in shaping the new value chains of electric vehicles. Today electric vehicle manufacturers are seeking to establish strategic alliances with mining companies and mineral suppliers to ensure a reliable supply.
the chinese company Gangfeng Lithium has a privileged position by obtaining the concession for the largest lithium deposit in Mexico. Located in the state of Sonora, this deposit represents a valuable source of lithium supply, an essential component in the manufacture of batteries for electric cars.
But lithium is not the only mineral needed for the production of lithium cells. The electromobility “boom” will increase the demand for various types of rare minerals, such as nickel, cobalt or lithium, as well as other more abundant ones such as copper, manganese or iron.
Grupo México and Minera Autlán
In Mexico, copper is the second most produced mineral in the country, representing 27.7% of the total volume extracted in 2021, being surpassed only by gold with a 28.4% share, according to data from the Mexican Mining Chamber (Camix). . Sonora is the state that concentrates the largest share of copper production, followed by Zacatecas, San Luis Potosí, Chihuahua and Baja California Sur. The company led by Germán Larrea, Mexico Group, It is the largest copper producer in the country.
Copper is essential in the manufacture of electric motors, cables and fast charging systems. The growing demand for electric vehicles has increased the need for copper, which represents a challenge to ensure a stable supply at affordable prices.
As for manganese, another essential mineral in both internal combustion and electric vehicles, around 10 kilograms are required in the former and around 20 kilograms in the latter, according to the IAE. In addition to its use in the manufacture of vehicles, manganese is essential in the steel industry, as is iron in its alloys, such as steel.
Globally, Mexico ranks twelfth as the largest producer of manganese, with South Africa, Gabon, Australia, China and Ukraine being the main leaders in this area. In Mexico, Autlán stands out as the main producer of this mineral.
last November, Minera Autlán announced a plan to invest 50 million dollars in the construction of a new furnace for the production of ferroalloys with the aim of supplying the growing market for manganese for electric car batteries.