AITKIN – State Rep. Dale Lueck, R-Aitkin, said Talon Metals Corp. has reached an agreement with automobile manufacturer Tesla that could be a boon for Northeastern Minnesota.
The deal is for the supply and purchase of nickel concentrate for Tesla vehicles to be produced from the Tamarack Nickel Project in Aitkin County. Lueck said the contract follows an extensive and detailed period of due diligence performed by Tesla, as well as a negotiations between the parties.
“This is great news for our region of Minnesota,” Lueck said.“It’s a clear indication the project is viable, and will ultimately produce the nickel needed to manufacture batteries for 10s of thousands of electric vehicles. The Tamarack Project, as it moves forward, is going to be an integral part of a very positive economy here in this part of Minnesota.
“The agreement shoots a gaping hole in the recent unfounded speculation by anti-mining groups and some individuals that attempt to discredit Talon’s stated goal of producing mineral resources that will be used in the manufacture of future electric vehicles. Electric vehicles alone won’t resolve climate change issues, but they certainly will contribute to a cleaner environment.”
A news release issued by Talon on Monday indicates Tesla has committed to purchase 165 million pounds of nickel in concentrate - with an option to negotiate expanding its purchase - representing a portion of the metals projected to be produced from the Tamarack Nickel Project. The term is for six years, for until the 165 million tons of product has been reached. Talon also indicates it will work with Tesla to optimize nickel concentrate grades and metal recoveries.
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