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AMSTERDAM, 28 October 2023: Stellantis NV and Orano have embarked on an exceptional journey towards the sustainable management of end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries and gigafactory scrap in Europe and North America.
This collaboration aims to bolster Stellantis’ position in the EV battery value chain while prioritizing environmental responsibility. It also aligns with Stellantis’ “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan, which revolves around becoming a carbon-neutral corporation by 2038.
Supporting a Circular Economy
This groundbreaking partnership highlights the vital need for solutions that combat natural resource scarcity and emphasize sustainability. Alison Jones, Senior Vice President of the Circular Economy Business Unit at Stellantis, underscores the importance of adopting a circular economy commitment to fulfill their Dare Forward 2030 strategy.
Innovative Recycling Technology
The joint venture leverages Orano’s pioneering low-carbon technology, which revolutionizes the recovery process of materials from lithium-ion batteries. This innovative approach ensures that all materials, including coveted resources like cobalt, nickel, and lithium, are reclaimed efficiently. It leads to the creation of materials known as “black mass” or “active mass,” which can be further refined in Orano’s hydrometallurgical plant in Dunkirk, France.
Closing the Loop
Orano’s advanced hydrometallurgy technology enables exceptional metal recovery rates of over 90%, which significantly contributes to the circular economy. Achieving recycling rates into EV batteries that align with European Commission standards ensures the sustainability of the business model, particularly in a context of rising demand for strategic metals and Europe’s reliance on them.
Orano’s Commitment to Sustainability
Guillaume Dureau, Orano Group Director of Innovation, R&D, and Nuclear Medicine, Magnets and Batteries, expresses the company’s commitment to a low-carbon economy by recycling strategic materials for the energy transition and circular economy. Orano’s disruptive and innovative process offers a genuine closed loop, aligning seamlessly with the principles of sustainability.
Dare Forward 2030 in Action
As part of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, the Circular Economy Business Unit is striving to increase recycling revenues tenfold and reach over USD 2.12bn (€ 2bn) in total circular economy revenues by 2030. This ambitious approach firmly establishes Stellantis’ dedication to sustainability.
A Promising Future
This commercial recycling entity will extend its services to Stellantis’ partners, after-sales network, and other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). By early 2026, production will commence, utilizing existing Stellantis assets and facilities. The venture also promises to offer reskilling and upskilling opportunities for employees, ensuring a sustainable transition into new roles.
Towards a Sustainable Tomorrow
The joint venture between Stellantis and Orano is poised to drive positive change in the recycling landscape, securing essential materials for EV batteries, and furthering the cause of sustainability. This initiative reflects the commitment of both companies to a greener, more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Stellantis and Orano’s collaborative effort marks an important milestone in the journey towards a more sustainable and circular approach to battery recycling, a crucial element in the ongoing electrification of the automotive industry.
