Batteries

Lithium Carbonate Price History

Spot price of battery-grade lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃, the most-traded lithium feedstock for cathode production) in China, in $/tonne. Spiked to ~$78K in April 2022 before crashing roughly 85% — the swing has driven the recent cost moves in LFP and NMC cells. Sources: Shanghai Metals Market, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

Battery-grade lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) spot price in China ($/tonne). Peaked at ~$78K in April 2022 before crashing 85%. Sources: Shanghai Metals Market, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

EV Battery Pack Cost — The Learning Curve

Average EV battery pack price in $/kWh (kilowatt-hour of capacity), in real 2024 dollars. Down 84% since 2013 and now approaching the ~$100/kWh threshold widely seen as the tipping point where EVs reach price parity with gas-engine (ICE) cars. Sources: BloombergNEF.

Average EV battery pack cost ($/kWh, real 2024 dollars). Down 84% since 2013. 2022 uptick from lithium price spike. Sources: BloombergNEF.

Battery Manufacturer Capital Expenditure

Annual capex (capital spending on new battery factories and capacity expansion) by top manufacturers, in $B. Gigafactory builds run $3–$6B each; CATL and BYD lead spend. 2025E are company-guided estimates. Sources: company filings, Bloomberg.

Annual capital expenditure on battery factory construction and expansion ($B). 2025E are company-guided estimates. Sources: company filings, Bloomberg.

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Batteries - Materials | Sterling