BatteryTech News & Updates – 2025 #03

Hello Battery-Tech community and professionals. Here is your weekly update of major developments in the global battery industry and EV market. Find more regular updates on the Battery-Tech Network LinkedIn page, where I will post all battery tech-related news and announcements for the community. You are all invited to join and follow. - Julian

BATTERY TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

?? Amprius Introduces SiCore? Cell to Boost Electric Mobility Batteries

Amprius Technologies, Inc. has unveiled its new SiCore? cell, delivering a 370 Wh/kg energy density and over 3,000 W/kg power. Designed for high-performance electric mobility applications like drones and EVs, the cell is set for commercialization in Q1 2025 and is currently undergoing real-world testing to meet demanding performance standards. Read more

?? SK On Develops Photonic Sintering for Solid-State Batteries

SK On has made significant advancements in all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) through collaboration with Korean universities. By utilizing ultrafast photonic sintering for solid electrolytes and enhancing cathode materials, the company published its research in top journals. Commercial prototypes are expected between 2027 and 2029, marking a major step in next-gen battery technology. Read more

?? KREISEL and CustomCells Collaborate to Develop High-Performance Batteries

German CustomCells and Austria's KREISEL Electric are partnering to create two tailored battery cell designs—one for ultra-high energy density and another for cost optimization. Targeting marine and off-highway applications, this collaboration aims to enhance performance, safety, and manufacturing strategies. The project will address supply chain challenges and conduct comprehensive risk analyses to ensure superior battery solutions. Read more

?? DGIST Develops Fire-Resistant Triple-Layer Lithium Battery

DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology) researchers have created a lithium metal battery with a triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte, significantly enhancing fire safety and extending its lifespan. Under the leadership of Dr. Jae-hyun Kim, the battery maintains 87.9% capacity after 1,000 cycles. This advancement is promising for applications in electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage, addressing key challenges like dendrite formation and improving overall performance. Read more

INDUSTRY & MARKET DEVELOPMENTS

?? Volkswagen's ID.7 Pro S Covers 941 km on One Charge

Volkswagen 's ID.7 Pro S achieved an impressive 941 km (584 mi) on a single charge in Italy, exceeding its WLTP range by 32.7%. With an 86 kWh battery and exceptional energy efficiency of 9.2 kWh/100 km, the ID.7 Pro S also offers rapid charging capabilities and robust performance. This milestone highlights Volkswagen's commitment to efficient and high-performing electric vehicles amid growing European demand. Read more

?? Morrow Batteries Shifts Focus to Production, Research, Cuts Jobs

Morrow Batteries is prioritizing commercial LFP battery production and advancing its proprietary technology in Grimstad, Norway. To concentrate on core activities, the company will reduce its workforce by up to 60 positions, retaining around 180 employees. Despite production delays and added costs, Morrow secured NOK 1.5 billion from Innovation Norway to accelerate profitability and future growth. Read more

?? Korean Battery Makers Turn to ESS Amid Slowing EV Demand

With global EV demand dipping, Korean battery giants like LG Energy Solution , SK On , and Samsung SDI are shifting focus to energy storage systems (ESS). Tesla Energy and other manufacturers are increasing ESS production, leveraging similar lithium-ion technologies. The ESS market is set to grow significantly by 2033, with Korean firms securing major contracts and expanding their ESS operations globally. Read more

?? Nyobolt Seeks New Funding to Sustain Operations

British battery startup Nyobolt is facing financial challenges and may deplete its funds by March without new investment. Despite pioneering ultra-fast EV charging technology and securing ￡50 M in 2022, the company reported a ￡20 M loss in 2023. Nyobolt is actively pursuing additional funding and new contracts to ensure its continued operations and growth. Read more

?? Volkswagen Forms Elli Mobility to Combine Charging and Fuel Services

大众 is set to launch Elli Mobility GmbH in March 2025 by merging LOGPAY Transport Services with Elli's mobility units. This strategic consolidation enhances charging and fueling services for both electric and combustion vehicles, positioning Volkswagen as a leading European mobility provider. The new entity aims to deliver seamless mobility solutions for business and private customers, streamlining operations under a single source. Read more

?? Sodion Energy Secures 10 MWh Supply of UNIGRID Sodium-Ion Batteries

Sodion Energy of Singapore has partnered with California's UNIGRID Battery to acquire 10 MWh of advanced sodium-ion batteries. This collaboration addresses Southeast Asia's growing demand for affordable, eco-friendly, high-performance solutions in e-mobility and energy storage sectors. Sodium-ion batteries offer cost-efficiency, safety, and fast-charging, making them ideal for the region's needs. Read more

?? Vulcan Energy Produces First Battery-Grade Lithium Hydroxide in Europe

Vulcan Energy has successfully produced Europe's first battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM) entirely locally at its Frankfurt-H?chst plant. Utilizing sustainable, fossil-free methods, this low-carbon production supports Europe's EV and battery sectors, enhancing raw material independence. The initial phase aims to supply sufficient LHM for approximately 500,000 electric vehicles annually. Read more

?? Vianode and GM Seal Multi-Billion USD EV Battery Supply Partnership

Vianode has entered a multi-billion USD agreement with 通用汽车 to supply high-performance synthetic anode graphite starting in 2027. Production will take place at a North American IRA-compliant plant, enhancing the EV battery supply chain through 2033. This partnership supports the sustainable energy transition with Vianode's low CO? footprint graphite, aiming to power 3 million EVs annually by 2030. Read more

?? DOE Awards $225 Million Grant for Arkansas Lithium Project

The U.S. Department of Energy has granted $225 M to the Southwest Arkansas lithium project, a collaboration between Standard Lithium and Equinor . This funding will support the construction of a sustainable processing facility using Direct Lithium Extraction technology, targeting an annual production of 45 000 tonnes of lithium carbonate. The project aims to enhance the domestic supply chain for EV batteries and is expected to create up to 400 jobs. Equinor highlights the grant as a boost to the project's financial strength and its commitment to innovative lithium extraction methods. Read more

?? LG Reduces Energy Storage Business Amid Rising Chinese Competition

LG电子 is scaling back its energy storage system (ESS) business after over a decade amidst fierce competition from Chinese firms that dominate 86% of the global market with cost-effective LFP batteries. The company will focus on maintaining existing products and shifting towards B2B sectors. This strategic shift follows LG's previous exit from the solar panel market in 2021 and aims to strengthen its position in areas with higher growth potential. Read more

BATTERY RECYCLING & SUSTAINABILITY

?? Altilium and LevertonHELM Join Forces to Boost UK Lithium Supply

Altilium Clean Technology and LevertonHELM have partnered to develop a sustainable domestic lithium supply chain in the UK. LevertonHELM will qualify recycled lithium from EV batteries at Altilium's Devon facility, supporting the green economy and reducing import reliance. This collaboration addresses the rising demand for lithium amidst growing EV adoption and aligns with EU battery recycling regulations. Read more

?? BMW Partners with SK tes for Closed-Loop Battery Recycling

宝马 and SK tes have partnered to launch a closed-loop battery recycling system in Europe by 2026. The initiative will recover cobalt, nickel, and lithium from used batteries and reuse them in BMW's new GEN 6 drivetrains. This effort supports BMW's circular economy and sustainability goals, enhancing resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. Read more

?? PEM to Deploy Second-Life EV Battery Storage in Pilot Cities

PEM RWTH Aachen University team has completed the Fluxlicon project, developing a 1+ MWh energy storage system using second-life EV batteries. In collaboration with DEKRA and others, the system enhances energy security for municipalities with installations in Wolfenbüttel and Ludwigsburg. Read more

?? Ace Green to Build India's Largest LFP Battery Recycling Plant

ACE Green Recycling, Inc. has finalized a lease for India's largest battery recycling facility in Mundra, Gujarat. By 2026, the plant will process 10,000 metric tons of LFP batteries annually using zero-emission LithiumFirst? technology. This expansion will create 50 local jobs and strengthen Ace's commitment to sustainable battery recycling in India. Read more

?? Circunomics Secures €8M Series A to Expand Battery Recycling

Mainz-based start-up Circunomics has raised over €8 M in its Series A round led by GET Fund and Schaeffler. Founded in 2019, Circunomics advances the circular economy for lithium-ion batteries through its digital marketplace and AI-driven lifecycle management, supporting sustainable EV growth. The funding will drive international expansion and the development of new digital services. Read more

?? Hydro Buys Northvolt's Remaining Stake in Battery Recycler

Norsk Hydro has acquired full ownership of battery recycler Hydrovolt from Northvolt for NOK 78 million ($6.79 M). Amid Northvolt's bankruptcy, Hydro aims to integrate Hydrovolt with its automotive aluminum and recycling strategies. The company is now seeking a new partner to further develop the recycling business, leveraging existing synergies. Read more

?? Blue Whale Awarded $55M DOE Grant to Expand Recycling

Blue Whale Materials LLC has secured over $55 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to expand its Bartlesville, Oklahoma facility. The $110 million project will process 50,000 tons of lithium-ion batteries annually, create 150 permanent jobs, and supply critical minerals for more than 100,000 electric vehicles each year. This expansion supports sustainable battery recycling and boosts local economic growth. Read more

?? Moment Energy Raises $15 Million to Build U.S. Battery Factory

Moment Energy has secured $15M in Series A funding co-led by Amazon Climate Pledge Fund and Voyager Ventures. The investment will support the construction of the U.S.'s first gigafactory dedicated to repurposing EV batteries. Backed by a $20.3M DOE grant, the project is set to create over 250 clean tech jobs, enhancing North America's lithium security and supporting renewable energy integration. Read more

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