Volkswagen announced on March 21st the creation of the European Battery Union. Led by Swedish automaker and battery manufacturer Northvolt, and in partnership with industrial and scientific players from seven European countries, the consortium aims to “advance battery research in Europe,” according to a statement.
Its activities will cover their entire production chain, from raw materials to recycling and cell technology, in order to “accumulate a much broader know-how” on them. An axis will also be dedicated to engineering and the development of green and sustainable technologies for their design.
Start of activities in 2020
The companies did not disclose the amount allocated to this consortium. The partners are expected to gradually increase their investments in the various programs. The German Ministry of Economy and Energy could also, if necessary, provide financial support. The partnership foresees that the results of the work carried out will be shared with all members of the Union. Activities should start in early 2020.
Following the disappointments of the “dieselgate”, Volkswagen has revised its predictions upward about the electric early March. 40% of its fleet should be electrified by 2030. For this, the manufacturer plans to invest $ 30 billion by 2023. He also raised his goal of electric vehicles. Over the next nine years, he does not plan to market 50 but 70 new electric models.