Exxon Eyes Lithium Leadership: Enters Talks With Tesla, Ford, And Volkswagen

Exxon Mobil Corp. is planning to enter the minerals game by becoming a supplier of lithium to Tesla Inc., Ford Motor Co., Volkswagen AG, and other automakers, according to Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter.  The sources said discussions are in the "early stages and also include battery giants Samsung and SK On Co.

" If the report is correct, Exxon appears to be searching for buyers as it positions itself to capitalize on the electric-vehicle boom amid pressure by ESG funds and the Biden administration to shrink its core oil…