Resource burden of electric vehicles set to triple by 2050
Demand for EV raw materials to triple by 2050, mainly lithium-ion batteries. Concerns arise over underestimating resources for EV transition. Circular economy strategies could help manage resource demand amid increasing EV adoption.
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Demand for raw materials for electric vehicles (EVs) is projected to triple by 2050, with lithium-ion batteries expected to make up over half of the resources needed for the auto industry. Researchers from Japan highlight concerns about underestimating the resources required to transition from fossil fuels to EVs. Current estimates fail to consider battery replacements during a vehicle's lifetime. Governments worldwide are pushing for increased EV adoption, with targets set for EV sales in countries like the UK, Japan, the US, and Germany. The study suggests that circular economy strategies, such as extending vehicle lifetimes, promoting ride-sharing, and enhancing recycling, could help reduce resource demand or maintain it at 2015 levels. While battery technology is advancing, challenges remain in securing resources for batteries. Implementing circular economy strategies alongside electrification in the automotive sector could mitigate resource use increases associated with EV adoption.
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7 comments> Vehicle electrification can be achieved without increasing resource use if a set of circular economy strategies is concurrently and ambitiously implemented."
So a big dig to get the materials in the first place and then fall off once we get enough of the materials out of the ground and good recycling systems in place. As opposed to continuing to go with oil where we will just constantly need more and more and more to burn.
"demand is expected to grow from less than 45 million in 2023 to ... reach 525 million in 2035." (~12x)
Am I missing something? Seems like too good deal to get 12x the vehicles for 3x the raw materials.
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