Articles tagged with "supply-chain"
Slate Auto’s electric truck: See it first at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Slate Auto CEO Chris Barman will unveil the company’s new electric truck live on stage, marking the first public reveal of this next-generation commercial EV. Barman will also discuss Slate Auto’s innovative approach to the commercial electric vehicle market, covering aspects from design and manufacturing to the challenges of hardware innovation, supply chain management, and startup-scale production in a capital-intensive industry. This event promises an unfiltered insider perspective on building a vehicle company focused on affordability, personalization, and advanced technology. Chris Barman brings extensive experience to Slate Auto, having held leadership roles at Chrysler, Eaton Corporation, and HCL Technologies, with expertise in autonomous driving, electrical systems, and driver-assistance technologies. Her background as a mechanical engineer and MBA, combined with her commitment to mentoring women engineers, underscores her leadership in the EV space. TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, held October 27–29 in San Francisco, will gather over 10,000 industry leaders,
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-manufacturingautomotive-technologyhardware-innovationsupply-chaincommercial-trucksThe Effect Of Tariffs On The Auto Industry — It's Not Just EV Manufacturers That Are Hurting - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the widespread negative impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on the global auto industry, affecting not only electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers but the entire automotive supply chain. Tariffs ranging from 7.5% to 25% on automobiles and auto parts have significantly increased production costs, leading to higher vehicle prices for consumers. The complex network of suppliers, many of which are small to midsize companies with slim profit margins, is particularly vulnerable. These suppliers face pressure to adapt by diversifying production, which introduces inefficiencies and longer lead times. Additionally, the shift toward electric vehicles adds uncertainty, as many combustion engine parts may become obsolete, while the administration’s policies favoring internal combustion engines further cloud the industry's future. Internationally, the tariffs are straining relationships with key automotive trading partners such as Japan, Germany, South Korea, China, and Canada. These countries have large automotive parts sectors employing hundreds of thousands of workers, and the tariffs are driving up costs and threatening jobs.
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-industrytariffssupply-chainmanufacturingmaterialsThe Trump administration is going after semiconductor imports
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a new policy aimed at boosting U.S. semiconductor production by enforcing a 1:1 manufacturing ratio. Under this approach, domestic semiconductor companies would be required to produce as many chips in the U.S. as their customers import from overseas manufacturers. Companies failing to meet this ratio could face tariffs, although the timeline for achieving this target remains unclear. This move is part of President Donald Trump’s broader efforts, initiated in August, to impose tariffs on the semiconductor industry and encourage reshoring of chip manufacturing. While the ratio-based policy could eventually increase domestic chip production, it poses significant challenges in the short term. Semiconductor manufacturing plants are complex and costly to build, with long lead times before becoming operational. For example, Intel’s Ohio plant, initially expected to open in 2025, has been delayed until 2030. Meanwhile, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has announced plans to support chip production infrastructure in the U.S., but details remain sparse. The proposed
materialssemiconductor-manufacturingchip-productiontariffssupply-chaintechnology-policyUS-manufacturingThe Trump admin is going after semiconductor imports
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a new policy aimed at boosting U.S. semiconductor production by enforcing a 1:1 manufacturing ratio. Under this approach, U.S. semiconductor companies would be required to produce domestically the same number of chips as their customers import from overseas. Companies failing to meet this ratio could face tariffs, although the timeline for achieving this target remains unclear. This move follows President Trump's discussions since August about imposing tariffs on the semiconductor industry to encourage reshoring of chip manufacturing. While the ratio-based policy could eventually increase domestic semiconductor output, it poses risks to the U.S. chip industry in the short term, as manufacturing capacity is currently insufficient to meet demand. Building new semiconductor fabrication plants is a complex and lengthy process, exemplified by Intel’s Ohio plant, which has been delayed multiple times and now aims to open in 2030. Meanwhile, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has announced plans to support U.S. chip production infrastructure, though details are sparse. Overall,
materialssemiconductorchip-manufacturingtariffssupply-chainUS-manufacturingtechnology-policyDoorstep raises $8M seed to help find missing food deliveries
Doorstep, a startup founded by Shashwat Murarka and Sheel Patel, has raised $8 million in a seed funding round led by Canaan Partners to address the challenge of missing food deliveries during the "last mile" of the supply chain. The company’s technology integrates with existing delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, using phone sensors to track drivers inside buildings—such as when they enter, take elevators, and reach the correct doorstep—where standard GPS fails. This real-time, verifiable data helps automate dispute resolution and validate deliveries, reducing customer frustration and improving proof-of-delivery accuracy without compromising user or driver privacy. The funding will enable Doorstep to transition from pilot to full production and expand its engineering and product teams. Murarka emphasized that unlike hardware-based competitors (e.g., building sensors or lockers), Doorstep’s software solution is more scalable and cost-effective. Currently active across all US states, the company aims not only to reduce fraud and refund disputes but also to rebuild
IoTdelivery-trackingGPS-technologysupply-chainsensor-technologylast-mile-logisticsfood-deliveryInnovation In Copper Extraction Is Accelerating Amid Soaring Demand - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the accelerating innovation in copper extraction driven by soaring global demand, primarily fueled by the energy transition. Copper is essential for electrification across sectors such as transport, renewable energy, and electricity infrastructure, with demand projected to rise from nearly 27 million tonnes in 2024 to 37 million tonnes by 2050. The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns of a potential 30% supply deficit by 2035 due to declining ore grades—down 40% since 1991—and increasing complexity and costs in mining operations. Key demand drivers include construction, electricity networks, electric vehicles (EVs), industrial machinery, and renewable energy installations, with EV copper demand expected to increase sevenfold by 2050. In response to these challenges, venture capital interest is growing in next-generation copper extraction technologies that promise faster, cleaner, and more efficient recovery methods. However, regulatory hurdles, high capital costs, and integration risks pose significant barriers to scaling these innovations quickly
energycopper-extractionelectrificationrenewable-energyelectric-vehiclesmining-innovationsupply-chainHowToRobot launches service to ease sourcing of automation - The Robot Report
HowToRobot, a Denmark-based company, has launched a new AI-powered sourcing service aimed at simplifying the automation procurement process for manufacturers and supply chains. Traditionally, obtaining competitive quotes for automation projects can take months due to the complexity of scoping projects, developing specifications, and soliciting proposals. HowToRobot’s service uses artificial intelligence to interact with buyers, gather detailed requirements, and generate structured project briefs that are then sent to a global network of over 20,000 suppliers, including those offering sensors, end effectors, and complete robotic systems. This approach significantly reduces the time needed to define requirements, match suppliers, review quotes, and arrange financing, potentially compressing a process that once took months into just days. The service evolved from HowToRobot’s consulting experience, addressing challenges faced by buyers new to automation who often struggle to properly scope projects or understand what features are necessary. The AI guides users through key process steps by asking targeted questions based on industry-specific knowledge, such as welding or pallet
roboticsautomationartificial-intelligencemanufacturingsupply-chainindustrial-robotsautomation-sourcingNatron’s liquidation shows why the US isn’t ready to make its own batteries
The recent liquidation of sodium-ion battery startup Natron underscores the significant challenges the U.S. faces in establishing a domestic battery manufacturing industry. Despite having $25 million in orders for its Michigan factory, Natron was unable to deliver products without UL certification—a process that can take several months. Investor reluctance to provide additional funding amid this delay led to a cash crunch, and attempts by the primary shareholder to sell the company stake failed. Consequently, Natron is undergoing liquidation through an “assignment for the benefit of creditors,” a process aimed at a swift asset sale outside of court. This case exemplifies the difficulties startups encounter in scaling battery production without consistent industrial policies and long-term investor commitment, as battery manufacturing typically requires a decade or more to mature. Natron’s struggles are part of a broader pattern of failures among Western battery manufacturers attempting to compete with established Asian supply chains and expertise. The sodium-ion technology, while potentially cheaper due to sodium’s abundance, has been undermined by a lithium price war in
energybatteriessodium-ionbattery-manufacturingsupply-chainlithium-ionenergy-storageWhy the US government is taking a stake in Intel
The Trump administration aims to establish U.S. dominance in artificial intelligence by revitalizing domestic semiconductor manufacturing, a critical component for AI technology. To support this goal, the administration converted a government grant intended for semiconductor manufacturing into an equity stake in Intel, contingent on Intel maintaining majority ownership of its foundry business over the next five years. Intel’s foundry unit, which manufactures custom chips, has faced challenges including regulatory setbacks, leadership changes, and strategic uncertainty since its 2021 launch and subsequent failed acquisition attempts. Former Intel board member Lip-Bu Tan briefly returned in early 2025 with a turnaround plan focused on refocusing the company and workforce, but his ties to China raised concerns among U.S. lawmakers, leading to his abrupt resignation. Shortly afterward, Intel secured a significant investment from SoftBank and finalized the U.S. government’s deal, which positions the government as a passive investor aligned with Intel’s interests. This unprecedented move reflects the administration’s commitment to reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, though questions
semiconductorschip-manufacturingIntelU.S.-governmentAI-technologydomestic-manufacturingsupply-chainTrump warns US could 'destroy China' over magnets with 200% tariff
Former U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. might impose steep tariffs—up to 200%—on China if Beijing restricts exports of rare-earth magnets, a critical component in various industries. Trump highlighted China’s near-monopoly on these magnets, which supply about 90% of the global market, and suggested that the U.S. holds stronger leverage through aerospace exports, citing Boeing’s aircraft sales to China as a key bargaining chip. He emphasized that tariffs would be a more powerful tool than magnets themselves and hinted at the potential to escalate trade pressure, though he claimed he would refrain from using the most severe measures. The comments came amid a fragile trade truce between the U.S. and China, agreed upon in June, which eased some export restrictions and reduced tariffs on both sides. Despite a recent rebound in China’s rare-earth magnet shipments to the U.S., supply chain vulnerabilities persist, as seen in production halts at companies like Ford and Tesla due to magnet shortages.
materialsrare-earth-magnetstrade-tariffsChina-US-tradesupply-chainaerospace-componentsrenewable-energy-materialsAnduril opens solid rocket motor factory amidst ongoing chemical chokepoint
Anduril has launched a high-volume solid rocket motor (SRM) factory in Mississippi, aiming to become the United States’ third major SRM supplier and break the longstanding duopoly held by Northrop Grumman and L3Harris’ Aerojet Rocketdyne. The factory is expected to produce 6,000 tactical motors annually by the end of 2026, supporting a range of applications from missile interceptors to deep-space probes. This expansion comes amid increased demand for weapons driven by geopolitical tensions such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the South China Sea. The U.S. Department of Defense has supported new entrants like Anduril, Ursa Major, and X-Bow Systems with funding to move from prototype to commercialization. However, the SRM supply chain faces a critical bottleneck due to the reliance on ammonium perchlorate (AP), a key oxidizer produced at scale by only one qualified supplier, American Pacific (AMPAC) in Utah. Despite
energysolid-rocket-motorsdefense-manufacturingsupply-chainammonium-perchloratemissile-technologyaerospace-materialsApple announces $100B American Manufacturing program - The Robot Report
Apple has announced a $100 billion American Manufacturing Program (AMP), expanding its total U.S. investment to $600 billion over the next four years. The initiative aims to increase domestic production of critical components and advanced manufacturing for Apple products, while incentivizing global partners to manufacture more in the U.S. Apple plans to hire 20,000 workers primarily in research and development, silicon engineering, software development, and AI/machine learning. Initial AMP partners include Corning, Coherent, GlobalWafers America, Applied Materials, Texas Instruments, Samsung, GlobalFoundries, Amkor, and Broadcom. Key projects under AMP include a major expansion of Apple’s partnership with Corning to produce advanced smartphone glass in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, and the opening of an Apple-Corning Innovation Center there. Apple also renewed a multiyear agreement with Coherent to produce VCSEL lasers in Sherman, Texas, and committed to sourcing American-made rare earth magnets from MP Materials, which will also establish
materialsmanufacturingsemiconductorsiliconrare-earth-magnetsadvanced-glasssupply-chainWhy Xiaomi Succeeded At Making Electric Cars But Apple Failed - CleanTechnica
The article compares the contrasting outcomes of Apple’s and Xiaomi’s efforts in the electric vehicle (EV) market, highlighting why Xiaomi succeeded where Apple failed. Apple invested 10 years and $10 billion in its electric car project, Project Titan, but ultimately shut it down with minimal results. In contrast, Xiaomi, a Chinese smartphone maker, successfully developed a compelling electric car, exemplified by the SU7 model, which impressed industry leaders like Ford CEO Jim Farley and set performance records at the Nürburgring. The key to Xiaomi’s success lies in China’s dominance of the EV supply chain, enabling rapid and cost-effective access to components and manufacturing expertise. The article also discusses the role of government support in China’s EV industry, noting that Chinese manufacturers have benefited from substantial subsidies and control over critical resources like battery minerals. While critics often attribute China’s success to exploitative labor practices and authoritarian governance, the article argues that the U.S. has also historically subsidized industries and pioneered key technologies such
electric-vehicleselectric-carsbattery-technologyenergy-storagesupply-chainChinese-manufacturinggovernment-subsidiesUS' lithium battery recycling plant offers yield exceeding 97%
Princeton NuEnergy (PNE) has launched the United States’ first commercial-scale battery recycling facility in Chester, South Carolina, achieving a recycling yield exceeding 97%. This advanced plant produces battery-grade cathode active materials and critical battery minerals domestically, supporting a secure and circular U.S. battery supply chain. The facility is fully permitted, surpasses industry recovery norms, and plans to expand capacity from 15,000 tons per annum (tpa) in 2026 to potentially 50,000 tpa as demand grows. PNE’s technology, developed from Princeton University research, utilizes a patented low-temperature plasma-assisted separation process (LPAS) that recovers nearly all lithium-ion materials across battery chemistries, offering a 38% cost reduction and 69% lower environmental footprint compared to conventional methods. PNE is also advancing direct recycling technologies through a joint pilot facility in Texas and operates the largest Materials Testing Center in the U.S. northeast, facilitating third-party validation and accelerating
energybattery-recyclinglithium-batteriesmaterials-recoverycircular-economysupply-chainsustainable-energyOpinion: Why the EU needs to cut its reliance on Chinese drones
Dr. Robert Brüll, founder and CEO of FibreCoat, argues that Europe must reduce its heavy reliance on Chinese-made drones amid escalating geopolitical tensions and the increasing use of drones in modern warfare, particularly highlighted by the conflict in Ukraine. Chinese drones currently dominate the market due to China’s focused industrial policies and strong state-private partnerships. However, recent US tariffs and China’s tightened export controls on drone components have caused price surges and supply delays, exposing Europe’s vulnerability and underscoring the urgent need for strategic autonomy in drone technology. Brüll emphasizes that Europe possesses the necessary resources—world-class research institutions, a tradition of scientific inquiry, and growing political will—to build a sovereign drone ecosystem. To achieve this, he recommends prioritizing funding for dual-use research with both civilian and defense applications, streamlining bureaucratic hurdles for startups, and ensuring defense funds reach innovative companies. Additionally, he calls for the establishment of a unified EU drone platform to coordinate research, share best practices, and accelerate innovation
dronesroboticsdefense-technologyEuropean-Uniondrone-manufacturingstrategic-autonomysupply-chainJeh Aerospace nets $11M to scale the commercial aircraft supply chain in India
Jeh Aerospace, an Indian startup founded by former Tata Group executives Vishal Sanghavi and Venkatesh Mudragalla, has raised $11 million in Series A funding to address production bottlenecks in the global commercial aircraft supply chain. The company focuses on scaling the manufacturing of precision metallic components for aero engines and aerostructures, supplying U.S.-based Tier 1 suppliers who serve major aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing. Headquartered in Atlanta to better serve its U.S. customers, Jeh Aerospace operates a 60,000-square-foot precision manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, India, where it leverages software-defined manufacturing, robotics, and IoT to reduce product lead times from the industry standard of 15 weeks to just 15 days. The startup’s approach aims to bring predictability and dynamic scheduling to aerospace component production, helping alleviate the current supply chain constraints amid a surge in global air traffic demand and a record commercial aircraft backlog nearing 15,700 units. Jeh Aerospace deliberately targets
robotIoTaerospace-manufacturingprecision-machinerysupply-chainindustrial-automationaircraft-componentsChina owns the drone industry. Now America needs to usurp it
The article discusses the growing dominance of China, particularly companies like DJI and Autel Robotics, in the global drone industry, with DJI controlling over 90% of the US consumer drone market and more than 70% globally. This concentration has raised significant national security concerns in the United States, prompting the Trump administration to issue executive orders aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese-made drones. These orders restrict federal agencies from using foreign adversaries' drones, accelerate risk assessments, and prioritize domestically built platforms. The US government’s scrutiny of Chinese drone firms has been ongoing since 2017, including bans, warnings about data sharing, and placing DJI on the Department of Commerce’s Entity List, culminating in a 2024 law mandating a national security review and potential sales bans. In response to these challenges, US startups like Corvus Robotics and Zepher Flight Labs are innovating by designing and manufacturing drones entirely in-house, avoiding imports and aiming for technological breakthroughs such as full-stack autonomy and hydrogen propulsion. Cor
dronesroboticsautonomyhydrogen-propulsionUS-manufacturingsupply-chainnational-securityThis industrial AI startup is winning over customers by saying it won’t get acquired
Industrial AI startup CVector is gaining traction with manufacturers, utility providers, and other industrial customers by emphasizing its long-term commitment to staying independent and not being acquired. Founders Richard Zhang and Tyler Ruggles frequently face customer concerns about the startup’s longevity, especially given the competitive tech landscape where large companies often absorb promising startups. To address this, CVector assures clients it will remain operational and mission-focused, a stance that resonates strongly with critical infrastructure customers such as national gas utilities and chemical manufacturers. This commitment is further supported by their choice of investors like Schematic Ventures, who specialize in supply chain and manufacturing software and value long-term founder alignment over quick exits. CVector’s founders bring complementary expertise that builds customer trust: Zhang’s experience developing software for oil industry field workers and Ruggles’ background in experimental particle physics and high-reliability data systems. The company has creatively developed its AI software architecture—described as a “brain and nervous system for industrial assets”—by integrating diverse data sources
energyindustrial-AImanufacturingsoftware-infrastructureutilitiessupply-chainindustrial-operationsChina's rare earth dominance keeps the US in a strategic bind
The article highlights China’s strategic dominance in the rare earth supply chain, contrasting it with the United States’ focus on upstream mining and political maneuvering. While the US primarily extracts rare earth ores, China has developed a comprehensive, end-to-end supply chain encompassing efficient separation, purification, and downstream processing. This dominance did not arise overnight; it is the result of decades of technological innovation and strategic investment, particularly following breakthroughs in the 1970s that allowed China to move from exporting raw ores to producing high-purity rare earth elements at scale. A pivotal figure in this transformation was Xu Guangxian, who in 1972 introduced the “rare earth cascade extraction” method, significantly improving the efficiency and purity of rare earth separation. This innovation enabled China to industrialize rare earth refining without relying on expensive Western equipment, allowing it to surpass Japan and the US in practical refining capabilities. Subsequently, China aggressively lowered prices, outcompeting Western producers and becoming the primary global hub for rare earth processing.
materialsrare-earth-elementssupply-chainmining-technologyChina-dominanceindustrial-innovationresource-extractionApple aims to end rare earth reliance on China with $500M deal
Apple has committed $500 million in a multi-year deal with MP Materials, the only U.S.-based company that mines, processes, and manufactures rare earth materials entirely domestically. This partnership aims to reduce reliance on China for critical rare earth elements, especially neodymium magnets used in Apple devices. As part of the agreement, Apple will purchase American-made magnets from MP Materials’ expanded Independence facility in Texas, which will feature new manufacturing lines tailored for Apple products and is expected to begin global supply by 2027. The expansion will create advanced manufacturing and R&D jobs, alongside training programs to build U.S. expertise in rare earth magnet production. Additionally, Apple and MP Materials will establish a state-of-the-art rare earth recycling plant at the Mountain Pass facility in California to recover materials from electronic waste and industrial scrap, further integrating recycled rare earths into Apple’s supply chain. This initiative builds on Apple’s prior use of recycled rare earth elements since 2019 and supports its broader commitment to invest
materialsrare-earth-elementsneodymium-magnetsrecycling-technologysupply-chainadvanced-manufacturingsustainable-materialsApple commits $500M to U.S.-based rare earth recycling firm MP Materials
Apple has committed $500 million to MP Materials, the only fully integrated rare earth mining company operating in the United States, to bolster the domestic rare earth supply chain. This investment includes Apple's commitment to purchasing American-made rare earth magnets produced at MP Materials’ Fort Worth, Texas facility. The factory will focus on manufacturing neodymium magnets tailored specifically for Apple products, which will be distributed both nationally and globally to meet rising demand. Additionally, Apple and MP Materials will collaborate to establish a rare earth recycling facility in Mountain Pass, California. This plant will process recycled rare earth materials sourced from used electronics and industrial scrap for reuse in Apple devices. The partnership also aims to develop new magnet materials and processing technologies to improve magnet performance. This initiative aligns with Apple’s broader pledge to invest over $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years and builds on its history of using recycled rare earth elements in its products since 2019.
materialsrare-earth-elementsrecyclingneodymium-magnetssupply-chainApplesustainable-manufacturingInteract Analysis slashes its mobile robot outlook amid tariff uncertainty - The Robot Report
Interact Analysis has significantly downgraded its mobile robot market outlook, citing a combination of geopolitical, economic, and industry-specific challenges. In its May 2025 report, the firm cut the 2025 market forecast by $800 million and lowered the projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for 2025–2030 from 26% to 21%, with the 2030 revenue forecast now at $15.6 billion. Central to this revision are the global tariffs introduced by the U.S. administration, which have disrupted supply chains and created considerable uncertainty in capital investments. This uncertainty, reflected in the Global Economic Policy Uncertainty Index reaching an unprecedented high of 430 in January 2025, has led many companies to delay large-scale automation projects in warehouses. Additional factors contributing to the forecast reduction include sluggish growth in warehouse construction due to elevated costs, industrial overcapacity, and ongoing policy uncertainty. Although there are tentative signs of recovery in regions like the U.S. and Japan,
robotmobile-robotswarehouse-automationmarket-forecasttariffs-impactsupply-chainautomation-investmentGlobal Coalition Calls for No Further Weakening of EU Batteries Due Diligence Rules - CleanTechnica
A global coalition of over 30 civil society groups, labor organizations, investors, and businesses has urged the European Parliament to maintain strong due diligence requirements in the EU Batteries Regulation. They warn that any weakening of these rules would undermine responsible and resilient battery supply chains, threaten the competitive advantage of European companies, and hinder efforts to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The coalition emphasizes that as the world transitions to renewable energy and electric vehicles, robust due diligence in battery sourcing is essential for sustainability. The coalition’s letter to the European Parliament’s environment committee calls on Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to uphold the current due diligence provisions as proposed by the European Commission and to reject any amendments that would dilute these requirements. They argue that weakening the rules now would place businesses already preparing to comply at an economic disadvantage. The article highlights the critical role of the EU Batteries Regulation in ensuring sustainable supply chains for batteries, which are central to the clean energy transition.
energybatterieselectric-vehiclesEU-regulationsrenewable-energysupply-chainsustainabilityLucid sales inch forward as EV maker pushes to ramp Gravity production
Lucid Motors reported a record delivery of 3,309 vehicles in the second quarter, marking a 6% increase from the previous quarter, alongside producing 3,863 vehicles—nearly 1,000 more than the prior period. Despite this progress in a challenging EV market, the company still faces a significant shortfall in meeting its 2024 production target of 20,000 vehicles, having produced only 6,075 in the first half of the year. To close this gap, Lucid aims to ramp up production of its new all-electric Gravity SUV, which began production in December 2024 but initially was mostly sold to employees, family, and friends. The customer base is gradually shifting toward general consumers, though production has been slower than expected due to tariff pressures and a focus on quality. CEO Marc Winterhoff emphasized that supply chain bottlenecks experienced earlier in the year are being resolved and stressed the importance of prioritizing quality over speed. While Lucid has not disclosed
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-productionautomotive-industrysupply-chainLucid-Motorselectric-SUVHow Minor Metals Could Cause Major Electrification Bottlenecks - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights a critical but often overlooked challenge in the global electrification transition: the supply constraints of minor or by-product metals such as indium, gallium, germanium, tellurium, selenium, and certain rare earth elements. Unlike primary metals like lithium and cobalt, whose production can be scaled more directly in response to demand, these by-product metals are produced only incidentally during the mining and refining of major metals like copper, zinc, nickel, and aluminum. This dependency means their supply is inherently tied to the extraction rates and market dynamics of unrelated primary metals, leading to unpredictable availability and price volatility that complicates strategic planning for industries reliant on these materials. Economically, the recovery of by-product metals is marginal and highly sensitive to market prices. For example, zinc refiners will only recover indium if its market price justifies the cost; otherwise, it remains in waste streams, causing intermittent shortages. This contrasts with primary metals, where steady demand typically supports sustained
energyelectrificationminor-metalssupply-chainrare-earth-elementsminingmaterialsUS to get rare earths upfront as Trump unveils 55% China tariff plan
U.S. President Donald Trump announced a tentative trade framework with China that includes upfront deliveries of critical rare earth minerals and industrial magnets to the U.S. supply chain, alongside a total tariff rate of 55 percent on Chinese imports. This deal also involves the U.S. honoring prior commitments related to Chinese students studying in American institutions, marking a reversal from recent stricter policies. Trump touted the agreement as a "great WIN" for both countries, emphasizing closer trade collaboration with Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, officials clarified that the 55 percent tariff figure consolidates existing duties rather than representing a new increase from the previous 30 percent rate. The announcement follows quiet negotiations in London aimed at reviving talks after months of trade tensions marked by escalating tariffs and retaliations. While the deal offers temporary clarity on rare earth supplies—vital for manufacturing electric vehicles and defense equipment—it also underscores the volatility of Trump’s trade strategy, which has fluctuated between tariff hikes and reversals. Despite ongoing legal challenges,
rare-earth-mineralsrare-earth-magnetsUS-China-tradetariffssupply-chaincritical-materialsindustrial-magnetsAuto Industry Crash on Horizon from Lack of Rare Earth Minerals & Magnets? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights a looming crisis in the auto industry due to China's tightening control over rare earth minerals and magnets, essential components for both electric and gas-powered vehicles. China currently dominates over 90% of the global rare earth supply chain and has recently imposed export restrictions amid escalating trade tensions with the West. These restrictions have led to significant disruptions, with several European automotive suppliers halting production lines because export licenses for these critical materials are scarce—only about 25% of requests have been approved. Consequently, some Chinese magnet manufacturers have paused production, potentially exacerbating future shortages. This supply chain bottleneck threatens not only the automotive sector but also other industries reliant on rare earth elements, such as robotics and military defense systems. The electric vehicle industry is particularly vulnerable since rare earth metals are vital for electric motors and catalytic converters. If the situation persists, the auto industry in the US and Europe could face temporary shutdowns, causing widespread industrial and economic impacts. The article underscores the urgency of resolving these supply chain issues to avoid a severe disruption in vehicle manufacturing and related sectors.
rare-earth-mineralselectric-vehiclesautomotive-industrysupply-chainmagnetsenergy-storagematerials-shortageWho and How Can Help Indonesia Clean Up Its Minerals Act - CleanTechnica
energymineralssustainabilitysupply-chainclean-technologyIndonesiaelectric-vehiclesChina’s 2,200-pound lifting monster drone completes maiden flight
robotdronelogisticsunmanned-aerial-vehicleaerial-transportcargo-dronesupply-chainDHL buying 1,000+ Stretch robots from Boston Dynamics
robotlogisticsautomationBoston-DynamicsStretchsupply-chaindigitalizationEU Battery Due Diligence Rules: Are Carmakers Ready?
energybatteriessustainabilityelectric-vehiclessupply-chainEU-regulationsclimate-changeRivian Aims To Cement Future EV Sales With New Park For Suppliers
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-manufacturingsupply-chaininnovation-hubRiviansupplier-parkRivian’s reportedly sitting on a stockpile of tariff-free batteries
energybatteriesRivianelectric-vehiclestariffslithium-iron-phosphatesupply-chainLocus Robotics surpasses 5B picks with its warehouse automation
Locus-Roboticswarehouse-automationmobile-robotslogisticssupply-chaintechnology-innovationrobotics-industryGet in gear for warehouse automation at the Robotics Summit & Expo
warehouse-automationroboticssupply-chainRobotics-Summiteconomic-challengeslabor-shortagesorder-fulfillment