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VW's EV Goals Complicated by Controversial 3TG Sourcing

10/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

VW's EV push relies on 3TG minerals (tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold) with smelters in its supply chain.
The DRC has large 3TG deposits, but profits fuel violence; VW says no direct relationships with identified smelters.
VW notes supply-chain complexity; other carmakers lack transparency about 3TG sourcing, and 61% of VW's 3TG suppliers were assessed by the Responsible Minerals Initiative in 2024.

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Story summary

VW's EV push relies on 3TG minerals (tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold) with smelters in its supply chain.
The DRC has large 3TG deposits, but profits fuel violence; VW says no direct relationships with identified smelters.
VW notes supply-chain complexity; other carmakers lack transparency about 3TG sourcing, and 61% of VW's 3TG suppliers were assessed by the Responsible Minerals Initiative in 2024.