Lithium questions continue for plug-ins

Shortages, costs and environmental concerns

Even before the first mass-produced plug-in hybrid vehicles hit the road, questions continue to mount regarding the viability of lithium to power these new vehicles. Some have questioned lithium supplies. Some have questioned long term costs.

Essentially, if demand outpaces supply for many years, economies of scale won't bring lithium costs down. Instead, the competition for these supplies might increase the costs of lithium batteries. And it isn't just cars, but a rapidly growing electronics industry is also sucking up these supplies. Some are already speculating that lithium will lead to significant political tensions between South America and the US.

And, lately, environmental concerns have also been raised. Check out CNET's latest article for more.