Supply Chain Regulation Map

An essential metal for EV lithium-ion battery cathodes (NCM/NCA). Over 70% of global mining is concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), facing human rights and child labor scrutiny. High-priority target under EU Battery Regulation due diligence.

Key mineral for active materials and electrolytes. While Chile, Argentina, and Australia hold the largest reserves, China controls over 50% of global refining capacity, triggering IRA FEOC exclusion criteria. Recycled lithium content targets are set by the EU.

The dominant anode material. China accounts for approximately 70% of natural graphite mining globally. China's export controls, coupled with USA IRA FEOC regulations, make establishing alternative supply lines a critical priority.

Crucial for high-energy density NCM/NCA cathodes. Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines are major producers, but Chinese companies dominate Indonesian refining. Subject to EU DD audits and environmental scrutiny.

An component in LFP (lithium iron phosphate) and emerging LMFP formulations. Main sources are South Africa and Australia, but refining is concentrated in China.

The core material determining cell energy density and cost. Cathode synthesis is the most carbon-intensive step. Its carbon footprint (CFP) must be registered in the Battery Passport database.

Mostly natural or synthetic graphite. The high reliance on Chinese raw materials directly triggers USA IRA FEOC exclusions, making this node a major bottleneck.

Electrolyte comprises lithium salts (LiPF₆) in organic solvents. Separators are porous polymer sheets (e.g., Asahi Kasei, Toray). Sourcing low-carbon electricity for separator plants is a key competitive factor.

The primary cell assembly process. Demands massive electrical energy. Sourcing renewable power is critical to achieving a competitive carbon footprint score.

The physical hub for the Battery Passport. Packs must carry a physical QR code linking to the digital record of CFP, due diligence reports, recycled content, and state of health (SOH).

The electronic monitoring system. Collects battery state-of-health (SOH) and lifetime cycling data, acting as the primary data interface for the Battery Passport.

Japanese brands (Toyota, Nissan, Honda) are building compliance systems for EU exports. Securing carbon footprint tracking tools and setting up recycling loops is critical.

Tesla, VW, BMW, and Hyundai are expanding localized cell supply lines. European OEMs leverage the EU Battery Regulation as a competitive barrier. Tesla has declared early compliance objectives for Giga Berlin, though reliance on Chinese materials remains a shared challenge.

Second-life battery applications, primarily stationary energy storage systems (BESS). The EU mandates a 51% recovery rate for traction batteries by 2028.

Extracting cobalt, lithium, and nickel from spent cells (black mass) and re-introducing them into cathode precursors. Essential for meeting future EU recycled content mandates.