As Tesla’s long-rumored low-cost electric vehicle appears poised for launch, anxiety is rising across its global battery supply chain—particularly among Korean and Japanese partners. Industry observers warn that Tesla’s increasing reliance on Chinese-made lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries could marginalize long-standing suppliers like LG Energy Solution (LGES), L&F, and Panasonic, potentially eroding their influence in the world’s most consequential EV supply chain.