![Pieces of lithium in an ore sample. Lithium is the lightest metal on Earth and is a key component in electric vehicle batteries. AP](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/JUZTHUQ4S6PSZRKLJMZWAIUILM.jpg?smart=true&auth=5839145737c923abc6e613057830219ecd4a4f0dc07bb32aadde9732014a2d22&width=400&height=225)
Pieces of lithium in an ore sample. Lithium is the lightest metal on Earth and is a key component in electric vehicle batteries. AP
Pieces of lithium in an ore sample. Lithium is the lightest metal on Earth and is a key component in electric vehicle batteries. APIran’s plans to start lithium mining by 2025 may extend lifeline to battered economy
Officials last week announced substantial lithium reserve discoveries in the Hamedan province