Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery industry is expected to experience explosive growth by 2025, driven by demand from energy storage and electric vehicle electrification, with significant investments and capacity expansions across the supply chain [5][6]. Investment and Capacity Expansion - In 2025, over 282 investment projects in China's lithium battery supply chain are anticipated, with total investments exceeding 820 billion yuan, marking a year-on-year increase of over 74% [6]. - Approximately 64 new lithium battery projects are planned, with a total capacity exceeding 1,100 GWh, representing a 105% year-on-year increase. The total planned investment for these projects is expected to reach 348.5 billion yuan, up 92% from the previous year [6]. - Investments in lithium battery materials, including cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, and separators, are projected to reach 308.5 billion yuan, a 127% increase year-on-year [6]. Strategic Partnerships and Supply Chain Dynamics - Battery manufacturers are forming deeper partnerships with upstream resource companies to secure future supply, as seen with CATL's investments in companies like Jiangxi Shenghua New Materials and Tianhua New Energy [7][9]. - Long-term contracts and equity binding mechanisms are being established to ensure raw material supply, with companies like Zhongxin Innovation and Huayou Cobalt planning significant purchases of lithium salt products over the next several years [9][10]. Market Trends and Pricing Dynamics - The lithium battery materials sector is witnessing a new round of capacity expansion, particularly in cathodes and electrolytes, driven by increased demand and rising production costs [14]. - The average price of lithium iron phosphate materials has seen a drastic decline, but there are expectations of price increases due to rising demand and cost pressures [16]. - The industry is shifting towards long-term contracts with flexible pricing mechanisms, indicating a more stable pricing environment compared to previous years [15]. Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook - The competitive landscape is evolving, with a focus on supply chain ecosystems centered around leading battery manufacturers, which are increasingly collaborating with material suppliers for joint development [18][19]. - The industry is expected to consolidate around a few major players, with a focus on technological advancements and supply chain synergies, leading to a more balanced supply-demand scenario in the coming years [20][21].