General Motors is trying to speed ahead in the race for metals underpinning the industry’s shift to electric cars.
Securing stable battery-metal supplies would be a boon — especially given the sector’s volatility. Cobalt prices, for example, rallied sharply last year but have since come crashing down amid a sharp drop-off in purchasing from the Chinese electronics sector. Nickel briefly soared to over $100 000 a ton in March before ending the year under $30 000.
The industry may want to tread carefully. Amnesty International has warned that mining is linked to environmental issues and claims of human rights abuses. In an era when environmental, social and governance shortcomings carry severe reputational risks, GM could be exposing itself to criticism.