If the electric-vehicle revolution is to happen in the U.S., Albemarle may be the company that fuels its success. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Albemarle is one of the world’s leading lithium providers, helping create the batteries that power electric cars. It operates the only currently active lithium mine in the U.S. with plans to reopen a second mine in North Carolina in the next few years, and its innovative techniques have improved the amount of lithium concentration it extracts by 25%. It is also experimenting with manipulating the element to improve its capabilities and to build batteries that are safer, longer-lasting, and twice as energy-dense as the batteries that exist today. “We can do this better, we can do it faster,” says Glen Merfeld, Albemarle’s chief technology officer.
A weekly newsletter featuring conversations with the world’s top CEOs, managers, and founders. Join the Leadership Brief.
- How Donald Trump Won
- The Best Inventions of 2024
- Why Sleep Is the Key to Living Longer
- Robert Zemeckis Just Wants to Move You
- How to Break 8 Toxic Communication Habits
- Nicola Coughlan Bet on Herself—And Won
- Why Vinegar Is So Good for You
- Meet TIME's Newest Class of Next Generation Leaders
