Hybrids’ thirst for metal causes mining concerns

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Hybrid cars are often lauded as a step toward a more sustainable future for cars. However, some of the rare earth metals needed to make the electric motors and batteries for cars like the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight are getting harder to come by.

Currently China is the leading provider of metals like neodymium and lanthanum that are used in hybrid batteries and motors. However, as China’s industries begin to use more of the metals themselves, there is less to be exported.

Hybrid enthusiasts can relax a little however, mines worldwide are sure to increase production to meet the growing need for hybrid technologies.

There is an open pit mine in Mountain Pass, Calif. (just north of the Mojave National Preserve on the Nevada border) that promises to supply a massive amount of rare earths. The mine was shut down in 2002 after major environmental concerns, and then finally competition from China drove the mine from profitability. However, with the decline of exports from China and a surge in demand for hybrid technology, the mine is set to reopen and cash in on California’s newest ‘gold’ rush.

-- J. Mark Sternberg

Source: Reuters