Automotive

The automotive sector is still the major demand sector for platinum group metals (PGMs), making up for over 80% of demand.
In 2023, 38% of new or "fresh" metal was going into the automotive sector, whereas the recycling of automotive scrap such as autocatalysts contributes siginficantly to the supply of metal to the market (source: Johnson Matthey PGM Market Report May 2024).

The efficient and safe operation of modern cars owes much to PGMs. They are used to lower emissions from internal combustion engines, in the production of hydrogen, and in fuel cells for electric vehicles. They are also being studied to improve the performance of lithium batteries.

The electronic and safety systems that boost automobile reliability make use of these PGMs’ conductivity, stability, and durability.

PGMs can be used in a very efficient way, only a few grams are needed in a catalytic converter to make a huge contribution in saving emissions.