Some flaws in that view.
Lithium is everywhere. But unlike other minerals it's concentration is very seldom high. Which makes it impossible to extract from most common sources. Only high concentrations are economically viable.
On the matter of substitutes to lithium batteries, research in a lab having positive results is all well and good, but there are three major factors missing.
Firstly these alternatives are still in development stages. The first lithium battery was developed in the 70s. Only now have they become mainstream. Research to market is a lengthy process. And then there is retooling. Economic viability and so on.
Secondly, weight. A major issue for any battery substitute , weight to power ratio is paramount.
Thirdly, new third generation lithium batteries have already been developed and use existing processes to manufacture. They double, yes double output. Some stiff competition for any attempt at replacing lithium. These batteries are already market ready and first commercial trials begin in September.
http://news.mit.edu/2016/lithium-metal-batteries-double-power-consumer-electronics-0817
