Navigating battery supply challenges and price momentum for the automotive sector

In the ever-expanding world of electric vehicles (EVs), industry players face three key challenges; securing a reliable supply of battery materials, determining the most cost-effective battery chemistry and navigating the impact of current price momentum on profit margins.

As the EV market matures, strategic decisions in these areas become pivotal for sustained success.

Explore these challenges through a series of real-life scenarios and find out how Fastmarkets can help you navigate this competitive landscape.

Download the full ebook: Mastering the EV revolution

How do I secure my supply of battery materials for the future?

The foundation of EV production lies in the steady supply of essential battery materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite. Ensuring a resilient supply chain is no longer just a matter of cost-effectiveness but a strategic imperative.

Businesses in the EV market must establish robust partnerships with suppliers, diversify sourcing channels and explore sustainable practices like recycling and reuse. With energy transition gaining momentum, long-term planning is critical to safeguard against potential material shortages or price volatility.

How do I know which battery chemistry would be most cost-effective?

The choice of battery chemistry is critical to the success of any EV venture. Manufacturers must carefully evaluate energy density, life cycle, safety and raw material costs to identify the most cost-effective solution. Collaboration with battery experts, staying abreast of technological advancements and continuous research and development efforts are essential.

By aligning their business strategies with cutting-edge battery technologies, companies in the EV market can not only optimize costs but also gain a competitive edge in terms of performance and efficiency.

How is the current price momentum affecting my margins?

Price fluctuations in battery materials directly impact the profit margins of businesses in the EV market.

Global economic shifts, geopolitical events and market trends contribute to uncertainties in cost structures. To address these challenges, companies must adopt agile pricing strategies, regularly reassess cost models and focus on operational efficiency.

A proactive approach to understanding and responding to price momentum is key to mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable profitability.

Turning challenges into opportunities

In the fast-paced and dynamic landscape of the EV market, securing a supply of battery materials, determining the right battery chemistry and navigating price momentum are critical considerations. Future-proofing your business involves strategic partnerships, continuous innovation and agile decision-making. By addressing these key challenges head-on, businesses in the EV market can not only survive but thrive in an industry that promises to shape the future.

Our ebook ‘Mastering the EV revolution’, provides a state of the market by exploring four key, real-life scenarios and how Fastmarkets can offer practical, intelligible solutions.

What to read next
The global iron ore market, a pivotal component of the steelmaking industry, has historically been driven by simple supply and demand dynamics. However, steel trade tariffs, trade wars and a growing trend toward resource nationalism are reshaping this once-basic industrial staple. These forces, alongside rising environmental regulations and shifting trade patterns, are profoundly influencing iron ore pricing, production and consumption trends. 
Vale Base Metals plans to boost annual copper production to 700,000 tonnes by 2035, aiming to become a top-five global producer of nickel and copper. CEO Shaun Usmar highlights a focus on productivity, cost optimization and sustainable growth. With strong assets in Canada and Brazil, Vale is well-positioned to meet rising global demand.
The graphite industry in 2025 faces major challenges, including trade wars, high US tariffs on synthetic graphite and policy changes affecting EV manufacturing and tax credits. Low natural graphite prices, oversupply and slow EV growth make diversifying supply chains essential for market stability.
At Fastmarkets’ International Iron Ore & Green Steel Summit 2025, we expect topics such as iron ore pricing trends, green steel developments and growing demand for high-grade pellets to emerge. The event will address decarbonization, Europe’s green steel growth and shifts in scrap and pellet markets driven by supply and cost changes.
Analysts suggest that the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill" may impact clean energy and battery manufacturing in the US by altering key incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).This may disrupt supply chains, cut investment in renewable energy and raise costs for electric vehicles, home energy products and other clean technologies.
Seaborne iron ore prices are on the rise due to increased trading activity and stable market fundamentals, highlighting steady demand and opportunities for growth while emphasizing the importance of monitoring market trends to manage risks effectively.