Can’t Stop the Market: Why Europe Should Embrace LFP Batteries (Sustainably) - CleanTechnica

The article from CleanTechnica highlights the growing importance of lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries in accelerating the mass-market adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in Europe. LFP batteries offer significant advantages over traditional nickel-rich chemistries like NMC, including lower costs (around $94 per kWh versus $130), enhanced safety, and reduced reliance on socially and environmentally problematic minerals such as cobalt and nickel. These benefits have led to widespread adoption of LFP batteries in affordable EV models, with over 40% of electric cars sold globally in 2024 using LFP chemistry and projections suggesting this could rise to nearly 60% by 2030. Despite the clear benefits, Europe faces challenges in catching up to China, which currently dominates over 99% of the LFP battery and cathode production. The article argues that Europe must urgently embrace LFP technology and implement industrial policies to develop local manufacturing and supply chains. Some European companies and automakers, including VW’s