Lucid Group has taken a significant step toward strengthening the domestic EV battery supply chain by launching the Minerals for National Automotive Competitiveness Collaboration (MINAC). Announced on July 23, this coalition aims to accelerate critical minerals sourcing for U.S.-based electric vehicle battery manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers.
Formed in partnership with critical mineral producers and refiners, MINAC’s mission is to identify and remove barriers that hinder domestic supply chains, thereby driving EV adoption, supporting sustainable manufacturing, and boosting job growth.
Lucid’s interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, emphasized the importance of domestic supply chains in enhancing manufacturing resilience, promoting sustainable supply chains, and boosting job growth.
Aligning with U.S. Policy Goals
The initiative closely aligns with President Donald Trump’s March 20 executive order designed to increase American mineral production. Founding member Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (AEMC) is spearheading large-scale nickel mining operations in Alaska, a key material for lithium-ion battery production.
AEMC’s President and CEO Gregory Beischer emphasized Alaska’s role in expanding U.S. access to critical minerals, enabling a stronger domestic manufacturing ecosystem.
Key Industry Players and Their Focus
Several companies have joined forces under MINAC, each bringing unique capabilities:
- Electric Metals USA – Developing the Emily manganese mining operation in Minnesota to become a major U.S. producer of high-purity manganese, another essential EV battery component. CEO Brian Savage noted the importance of reducing reliance on foreign suppliers like China.
- Graphite One – Recently signed a graphite supply deal with Lucid. CEO Anthony Huston sees MINAC as a pathway to a fully U.S.-based supply chain.
- RecycLiCo – Specializes in hydrometallurgical technology for recovering and refining critical minerals. CEO Richard Sadowsky highlighted the growing necessity for efficient recovery processes in today’s global trading environment.
Why Domestic Critical Minerals Sourcing Matters
For decades, U.S. industries, especially the automotive supply chain have depended heavily on foreign imports, particularly from China, for critical minerals. This dependency poses supply chain risks, cost volatility, and strategic vulnerabilities.
By fostering domestic sourcing and developing closed-loop recovery systems, MINAC aims to:
- Ensure stable access to nickel, manganese, and graphite.
- Support EV battery production without overseas dependency.
- Promote economic growth through new mining, refining, and recycling jobs.
Industry and Market Impact
As global EV demand accelerates, securing critical minerals sourcing is becoming a decisive factor in competitive advantage for battery manufacturers and EV producers. Lucid’s leadership in forming MINAC could set a precedent for vertical integration and supply chain resilience across the automotive sector.
If successful, the collaboration will not only enhance EV adoption but also strengthen America’s position in the global clean energy transition.
