Volkswagen rushes into cobalt supplies for future electric batteries

The electric vehicles still only represent a tiny fraction of the automobile market, but they are set to multiply in the coming years. In parallel, it will be necessary to be able to produce the necessary electric batteries and consuming resources.

Volkswagen ID Crozz stickerAs of now, market players are starting to secure the supply of raw materials.

The agency Reuters reports that the builder Volkswagen is trying to take over world production of cobalt and obtain supply agreements for at least ten years by 2019.

Engaged in the transformation to electric with the dieselgate scandal, the German manufacturer now has big ambitions for all of its brands (Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Porsche …) and plans to produce up to 3 million annual electric vehicles from 2025, which will require the equivalent of 150 GWh of batteries.

Cobalt helps boost the energy density of electric batteries and extend their lifespan, Reuters explains, but negotiations would be difficult, between ensuring sufficient volumes and leaving the way out in contracts if all goes well not as expected, while real needs remain poorly defined.

Working conditions are also discussed to ensure that the production of cobalt is not linked to the recruitment of children.