Electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid Group has joined a new industry initiative focused on strengthening the domestic supply chain for critical minerals used in battery production. The program, known as the Minerals for National Automotive Competitiveness Collaboration (MINAC), brings together mineral developers and recyclers to support increased U.S. production of materials essential to electric vehicle manufacturing.
The partnership includes Alaska Energy Metals, Electric Metals, Graphite One, and RecycLiCo, which are involved in developing or refining nickel, manganese, graphite, and other battery-related minerals. These materials are used in lithium-ion batteries, which power a growing number of electric vehicles in the United States and globally.
“We continue to support efforts that build greater supply chain resilience and advance the U.S. automotive sector,” said Lucid Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff. “Collaborations like MINAC contribute to long-term industry stability.”
Alaska Energy Metals is advancing a nickel project in Alaska that could help reduce dependence on cobalt, while Electric Metals is developing a manganese project in Minnesota aimed at improving battery cost and stability. Graphite One is working on both synthetic and natural graphite facilities in Alaska and Ohio, with production expected to begin by 2028. RecycLiCo uses hydrometallurgical processes to recover key minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel from used batteries and ores.
The collaboration is designed to address challenges in mineral availability and encourage offtake agreements between producers and automakers. It also seeks to expand cooperation between mining and automotive industries to support domestic sourcing and regulatory compliance.
“Access to domestically produced minerals improves supply certainty and helps meet evolving market and regulatory demands,” said Gregory Beischer, CEO of Alaska Energy Metals.
The initiative has received support from several U.S. lawmakers. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona welcomed the move, citing potential economic and strategic benefits. Representatives Andy Biggs, Eli Crane, and Juan Ciscomani also expressed support, pointing to the role of mineral independence in enhancing national supply chain security.
As demand for electric vehicles grows, automakers are seeking more localized sources of critical battery materials. MINAC is one of several recent efforts aimed at reducing reliance on overseas supply chains while promoting domestic industrial growth. Lucid said its participation aligns with its strategy to secure materials for future vehicle production.
