Will China's new ruling lower the price of Lithium packs?

[Juiced Riders]

China's new e-bike regulation could basically end the use of lead acid battery packs for most e-bikes. I was there this summer and Lithium bikes are getting very completive.

Here is a recap, links to videos and other news sources about this topic.
http://www.juicedriders.com/blog/2009/12/16/debate-heating-up-over-e-bikes-in-china.html

BTW just today, the planned ban has been suspended. It is being delayed and no firm date.

 

[nwmtnbiker]

No, unfortunately it will have the opposite affect, given the law of supply and demand. I suspect it may even become difficult to get your hands on LIFEPO4 cells to build your own pack because demand within China will be great enough to corner the market. Those of us without LIFEPO4 now may regret waiting. I bet the prices will increase significantly by the middle of next year especially for foreign buyers who may not even be able to get cells or battery packs because most will be reserved for domestic use within China by Chinese battery manufacturers.

 

[geetarboy]

I'm hoping the price will go down,but you may be right nwmtbiker. I have been studying alternative energy for years and know the same raw material for the batteries is also used for photovoltaic solar panels.lithium harvesting is on the rise, but then you're right, so is demand. However,because you don't need to replace lifepo4's as often it might balance out. All I know for sure is... I love my new e-bike and want 2 go faster...