Graphite in both its mined and synthetic forms is the key component of the lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes used in electric vehicles. On average 50–200 kg of hydrometallurgically refined graphite is used in the battery pack anodes for a single vehicle, accounting for more than 25% of the battery pack mass. The increased demand for production of electric vehicles in recent years has been accompanied by an additional interest in research and process development for purification of mined graphite. Production of high-purity graphite powder suitable for use in LIB anodes can be achieved by grinding and flotation of mined graphite followed by alkali digestion of the flotation concentrate and further grinding and flotation. At elevated temperatures, impurities such as quartz (SiO2), alumino-silicate minerals (present as feldspar and clays), various heavy metals, and iron (present as hematite) all react with alkali reagents like caustic soda and are separated from the mined graphite feedstock. This paper outlines the alkali leach hydrometallurgical options, when coupled with grinding and flotation, can result in production of a high-purity refined graphite product that meets the stringent specifications of electric vehicle LIBs. Challenges in materials of construction and equipment selection for the alkali leach process at high temperatures and pressures are also discussed.