From：Internet Info Agency 2026-01-18 15:30:08
Tesla's lithium refinery near Corpus Christi, Texas, has officially commenced operations, becoming North America’s first facility capable of directly processing spodumene ore into battery-grade lithium hydroxide. Utilizing an integrated process, the plant eliminates traditional intermediate steps, resulting in a simpler, lower-cost production flow and generating no harmful byproducts—only anhydrite, which can be used in concrete. Elon Musk described it on social media platform X as “the world’s most technologically advanced lithium refinery,” highlighting its clean and environmentally friendly features. The facility was built and brought online in just three years—from groundbreaking in 2023 to production start in 2026—setting a record for the fastest timeline among similar projects. This move will reduce Tesla’s reliance on overseas lithium supply chains and support the company’s expansion in both battery and vehicle production capacity.
Geely Unveils i-HEV Smart Hybrid Technology, Set for Mass Production in 2026 Across Multiple Models
Car Seller Loses $60,000 Corvette as Buyer Flees During Chicago Test Drive
Tesla Launches Limited Run of 350 Signature Model S/X Plaid Units at Nearly $160,000
FAW Executive Zhou Shiying Urges Auto Industry to Break Silos and Advance Intelligent Collaboration
2027 BMW M5 Debuts with Bold New Design, Retains V8 Hybrid Powertrain
Smart #2 Concept to Debut at Beijing Auto Show, Retaining Fortwo's Iconic Layout
Audi Q9 to Launch in Second Half of 2026 as Full-Size SUV, Starting at ~$134,000
