The Metals Tesla Needs

Lithium

Macquarie Research projects the market will undershoot 2016 demand by about 4,500 metric tons before a slight surplus in 2017.

Nickel

Prices have plummeted more than 50% in the past two years, as producers increased output in response to Indonesia’s export ban.

Cobalt

Supplies outpaced demand in 2015 by about 1,285 tons but should now fall short each year through 2020, driving up prices.

Aluminum

Goldman Sachs expects a global surplus of 1.25m metric tons this year. Harbor Intelligence predicts a glut through 2021.