While EV’s have zero tailpipe emissions, they do still do have green issues to solves. While auto makers cannot control how electricity is produces to power their vehicles. Sadly, coal fire plants are still a major method of making juice which EVs need. The auto makers do have control of the batteries that power the vehicles they sell.
The major issues with batteries today is the use of cobalt. Mining the element takes a serious toll on environment. On top of the the workers in the mainly poor countries when it is found are treated in many cases as slaves.
One of the best rumors in awhile is Tesla may begin using cobalt-free batteries. Reuters reports Tesla is looking into using batteries without the material for cars it builds in China.
Cobalt is incredibly expensive! So yes, this will also save them money on makeing the autos but also solves many social issues at the same time.
The rumor mill has the firm using lithium-iron phosphate based batteries for autos sold in China. In November of last year, Tesla reached a preliminary agreement to start using CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co) as a battery supplier for vehicles made in China.
