I am not sure that two instants of manufacturers buying into mining companies is a trend, and I am not sure what this will mean long term.... but interesting to figure out how to make money on this possible trend

Back to our Lithium discussion. I found this article this morning regarding Magna buying into a Lithium producer. Magna will produce Li ion batteries for cars.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/magna-buys-stake-in-small-lithium-miner/article1421528/

which led me to remember this article

http://www.gwmg.ca/media/news/2009/great-western-minerals-group-and-toyota

toyota signs a non binding letter of intent with Great Western minerals, for rare earth minerals for electric cars.