Trump Places Direct Bet on Thacker Pass Lithium

Core Insights - The U.S. Administration is seeking a 10% equity stake in Lithium Americas Corp. for the Thacker Pass lithium project to reduce dependence on China in critical minerals supply [1][2] - The Thacker Pass project is expected to significantly increase U.S. lithium production, with a design capacity of 40,000 tonnes per year of battery-quality lithium carbonate, making it the largest lithium supply project in the Western hemisphere [4][5] - Following the news of the U.S. Administration's interest, shares in Lithium Americas surged by 80% after hours [6] Company Insights - Lithium Americas Corp. is currently renegotiating a $2.26 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy for the Thacker Pass project, targeting mechanical completion by late 2027 [3] - General Motors holds a 38% interest in the Thacker Pass project, having invested $625 million [3] Industry Insights - The Thacker Pass project aims to enhance the U.S. domestic battery supply chain, improve economic and national security, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers [4] - The project is expected to raise nearly ten times the current U.S.-sourced lithium volumes, addressing the growing demand for lithium in battery technologies [5]