Volkswagen's EVs Under Scrutiny Over Conflict Minerals
BERLIN, GERMANY - October 1, 2025 - Volkswagen's electric vehicles (EVs) have come under scrutiny over allegations that they contain conflict minerals sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a country plagued by violent conflict.
According to an investigative research conducted by DW and Dutch magazine De Groene Amsterdammer, Volkswagen's EVs may be using tantalum, tin, tungsten, and gold (3TG) minerals, which are crucial for building suspension systems, wiring, lighting, and electronic displays. The 3TG minerals are highly sought after in the auto industry due to their durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to conduct electricity.
"We have reason to believe that Volkswagen's EVs contain conflict minerals sourced from the DRC," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, lead researcher on the project. "Our investigation revealed a complex web of supply chains that link European carmakers to artisanal mines in the DRC."
The DRC is home to some of the world's largest deposits of 3TG minerals, but their extraction has been linked to human rights abuses and funding of armed groups. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement of communities.
"This is not just a matter of Volkswagen's reputation; it's about the lives of people affected by this conflict," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We urge carmakers like Volkswagen to take responsibility for their supply chains and ensure that they are free from human rights abuses."
Volkswagen has yet to comment on the allegations, but industry experts say that the company is not alone in using 3TG minerals.
"The use of conflict minerals is a systemic issue within the auto industry," said Dr. John Taylor, an expert on sustainable supply chains. "Carmakers need to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that their products are free from human rights abuses."
The European Union has implemented regulations aimed at preventing the trade of conflict minerals, but critics argue that more needs to be done to hold companies accountable.
"The EU's regulations are a step in the right direction, but they are not enough," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We need stronger laws and greater transparency in supply chains to prevent the use of conflict minerals."
As the world transitions to electric vehicles, the demand for 3TG minerals is expected to increase. Volkswagen and other carmakers must now navigate this complex issue and ensure that their products do not contribute to human rights abuses.
Background:
The DRC has been plagued by conflict since the 1990s, with various armed groups vying for control of the country's rich mineral resources. The use of artisanal mines in the DRC has been linked to human rights abuses, including child labor and forced displacement of communities.
Additional Perspectives:
"The use of conflict minerals is a symptom of a broader issue - the lack of transparency and accountability in global supply chains," said Dr. Taylor.
"Carmakers need to take responsibility for their supply chains and ensure that they are free from human rights abuses," said Dr. Rodriguez.
Current Status:
Volkswagen has yet to comment on the allegations, but industry experts say that the company is not alone in using 3TG minerals. The European Union's regulations aim to prevent the trade of conflict minerals, but critics argue that more needs to be done to hold companies accountable.
Next Developments:
DW and De Groene Amsterdammer will continue to investigate the use of conflict minerals in the auto industry and push for greater transparency and accountability in supply chains.
*Reporting by Dw.*
