Core Viewpoint - The European Union (EU) is facing a critical supply crisis regarding rare earth elements, particularly in the context of electric vehicle production, as over 90% of rare earth magnets are sourced from China. The EU's strong rhetoric against China contrasts sharply with the immediate concerns of its automotive industry, which is heavily reliant on these materials [1][3][5]. Group 1: EU's Dependency on Rare Earths - The EU's automotive sector, particularly electric vehicle production, consumes approximately 2 kilograms of rare earth permanent magnets per vehicle, highlighting the critical nature of these materials in modern manufacturing [7]. - The EU's ambition to ban the sale of fuel vehicles by 2035 is now threatened by the looming shortage of rare earths, which could lead to production halts within two months if supply issues are not resolved [5][7]. - The EU's historical decision to outsource rare earth mining to China has left it vulnerable, as geopolitical shifts have led to increased Chinese export controls, revealing the interconnectedness of global supply chains [9]. Group 2: EU's Response and Challenges - In response to the crisis, the EU has launched the "EU Resource Autonomy Plan," which includes initiatives for rare earth recycling and joint procurement. However, experts estimate that establishing a complete supply chain could require over €100 billion and take 20 to 30 years, posing significant challenges for the current European industrial landscape [11]. - The EU's criticism of China's export controls is seen as hypocritical, given that similar measures are employed by the US and the EU itself regarding critical minerals [13][15]. - The EU's attempts to coordinate a united front with the G7 against China's rare earth policies are viewed as politically motivated and lacking genuine commitment, as member states prioritize their own interests [17]. Group 3: Implications for the Automotive Industry - Germany's automotive industry, particularly companies like BMW and Volkswagen, is at the forefront of the rare earth shortage crisis, as their electric vehicle transitions heavily depend on Chinese supplies [20]. - The strained diplomatic relations between Germany and China, particularly following high-profile visits and demands, have exacerbated the situation, leaving German automakers in a precarious position [20]. - The broader implications of the rare earth supply crisis extend to national defense, where critical systems in military equipment also rely on these materials, further complicating the EU's strategic landscape [7].
冯德莱恩：欧盟需要稀土，若中方坚持管制，欧方将采取一切手段