China’s EV market shows the future is already here

High-flying: The BYD Seagull at an international motor show. The zippy battery compact, which is unlikely to be offered in many overseas markets, sells for less than US$10,000. — AFP

FORGET everything you’ve heard about how electric vehicles (EVs) are running out of charge. In the biggest car market, they’re on the brink of victory – and the rest of the world will soon follow.

Battery metals such as lithium, nickel and cobalt are down by, respectively, 80%, 30%, and 25% over the past year.