OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP THE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY VALUE CHAIN IN SOUTH AFRICA

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Abstract:

The world of mobility is rapidly changing. The market for electric vehicles (EVs), in all their forms, is growing exponentially. Combined with technological disruptions in the energy space, the rise of EVs puts battery technologies at the core of sustainable development. Multiple technologies and chemistries, with their respective advantages and shortcomings, are competing in a market currently dominated by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Both South Africa’s government and industry have indicated their intention to position the local value chain as a key player in the mobility of the future (Montmasson-Clair et al., 2020). This is critical to ensure a just transition to e-mobility which could notably preserve, if not increase, job creation. Indeed, South Africa hosts a vibrant automotive manufacturing value chain. As in the rest of the world, the domestic industry, however, produces internal-combustion engine vehicles and components, This raises the question of the positioning of South Africa in the value chain. This report explores the opportunities for South Africa to play a role in the LIB value chain.