Hot August Nights is officially underway in Reno…

bringing in thousands of visitors for one the largest classic car shows in the United States. Nevada mining is responsible for several minerals that are used to produce the vehicles and roads that take us to our destinations every day. Here are 5 ways Nevada mining makes ground transportation possible.

It’s all about copper

Because of its ability to conduct electricity, copper wiring is found nearly everywhere in your vehicle.  The average car requires more than 50 pounds. Plug in-hybrid vehicles use even more with 132 pounds of copper!

Gold and silver keep you moving and keep you safe

Like nearly everything else that turns on and off, gold and silver are used in vehicles. They’re most commonly used in electrical circuit boards. Additionally, since gold is the most resistant metal to corrosion, it is a vital component in airbag sensors.

Lithium is powering the cars of today and tomorrow

Most cars use lead-based batteries. However, that has started to change with the increased popularity of electric vehicles. Like cell phones and other modern technological devises, electric cars require lithium-ion batteries for power. Nevada is home to the only operating lithium mine in North America.

Nevada aggregate paves the way… literally

Mining is responsible for more than just cars on the road, it’s also how the roads themselves are made. Nevada mined 40 tons of aggregate in 2017 that make the roads and highways people drive on every day.

Petroleum does more than fuel

Petroleum does more than just fuel your car. It is also added to tire rubber to increase strength and durability.

Want to learn more about the 20+ minerals produces in Nevada? Visit our Minerals in Nevada page!