Evaluating strategies for reducing material use in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles

The exponential increase in lithium-ion battery (LIB) demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has sparked material supply concerns, which makes the understanding of the LIB system and its drivers a pertinent issue. To understand the uncertainty and sensitivity around these drivers, we introduce the MATerIaL Demand and Availability (MATILDA) model. We investigate resource use within the global LIB cycle in the context of EVs and the potential secondary material supply generated by alternative scenarios. Using this dynamic, multi-layer material flow analysis model, we conducted a detailed, time-explicit sensitivity analysis to broaden our understanding of the critical factors affecting resource supply. We identified potential problem shifts between Co, P, Ni, and Li and evaluated alternative strategies to mitigate their criticality over time. We show that social paradigm shifts such as using fewer, smaller vehicles as well as technological developments can play an important role in enabling a sustainable transition.