New Caledonia is one of the main nickel producers in the world. This metal, essential for the production of batteries, is therefore a major asset for 100% electric car manufacturers. Luckily, Tesla just made a big deal.
The nickel mines in New Caledonia had been managed by the Brazilian company, Vale for many years. Only here, after having encountered multiple problems, including conflicts with residents, the multinational was looking for a buyer.
A sale that caused debate on this island in the South Pacific which will soon decide on its independence. According to some residents, these mines should belong to New Caledonia. Their dominant position in the world nickel market (25% of total resources) could promote the standard of living of the inhabitants.
Tesla well placed
Thus, when the mines are sold, Vale has reached an agreement with the Caledonian authorities to transfer part of the operation to them. 3 other local regions have also benefited, as has the Singaporean company Trafigura.
And in all this administrative and financial slump, Tesla has managed to position itself just right.
Indeed, at the time of the agreement, the American manufacturer was designated as a “technical and industrial partner”. Thanks to this status, Tesla has just acquired almost all of the new production planned. That is 42,000 tonnes of nickel over the coming years.
Photo: Hamdi Ben Lagha
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New Caledonia is one of the main nickel producers in the world. This metal, essential for the production of batteries, is therefore a major asset for 100% electric car manufacturers. Luckily, Tesla just made a big deal.
The nickel mines in New Caledonia had been managed by the Brazilian company, Vale for many years. Only here, after having encountered multiple problems, including conflicts with residents, the multinational was looking for a buyer.
A sale that caused debate on this island in the South Pacific which will soon decide on its independence. According to some residents, these mines should belong to New Caledonia. Their dominant position in the world nickel market (25% of total resources) could promote the standard of living of the inhabitants.
Tesla well placed
Thus, when the mines are sold, Vale has reached an agreement with the Caledonian authorities to transfer part of the operation to them. 3 other local regions have also benefited, as has the Singaporean company Trafigura.
And in all this administrative and financial slump, Tesla has managed to position itself just right.
Indeed, at the time of the agreement, the American manufacturer was designated as a “technical and industrial partner”. Thanks to this status, Tesla has just acquired almost all of the new production planned. That is 42,000 tonnes of nickel over the coming years.
Photo: Hamdi Ben Lagha
Read also on Auto-Moto.com:
VIDEO – The best car of the day: Rally Legend 360 ° with Craig Breen
