Volkswagen, Northvolt to work together for battery research

Volkswagen and Swedish battery maker Northvolt and other companies along with science labs are going to work together in battery cell research, the German automaker stated on Thursday.

Beginning in early 2020, the so-called European Battery Union (EBU) intends to accumulate know-how on battery cell production, consisting of research on raw materials, cell technology but also the recycling of used batteries.

“All the partners will step up their investments as a result of the planned additional research activities,” Volkswagen stated, noting that they could seek funds from the German economy ministry.

The country has earmarked 1 billion euros ($1.14 billion) to support a consortium looking to produce electric vehicle cells and prepares to fund a research facility to develop next-generation solid-state batteries.

Over 30 companies have applied for the program to support the production of battery cells, the Economy Ministry stated previously this month.