WASHINGTON — Amid the global search for lithium for electric vehicle batteries, major automakers are eyeing production fromAmerican Battery Technology Co.(NASDAQ:ABAT), CEORyan Melsertsaid this month at a mining conference.

The company is developing one of the largest lithium deposits in the United States at itsTonopah Flatsmining and refining project in Nevada to provide lithium in addition to the company's battery recycling business.

American Battery Technology is funding its operations with revenue from recycling and U.S. Department of Energy grants but plans to augment that in the medium term with project financing and...