Mercedes-Benz Launches Battery Recycling Plant

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Mercedes-Benz has officially opened Europe’s first battery recycling plant using an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process in Kuppenheim, Germany. This plant represents a key step in the company’s mission to close the battery loop and create a circular economy by recovering more than 96% of valuable raw materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt. This new recycling facility is expected to produce enough materials to create over 50,000 new battery modules per year while being net carbon-neutral. The project is part of Mercedes-Benz’s holistic strategy to enhance battery sustainability.

Key Highlights:

  • First battery recycling plant in Europe using an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process.
  • Expected recovery rate of more than 96% for valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt.
  • Net carbon-neutral operations powered by 100% green electricity.
  • Plant aims to generate enough recycled material for over 50,000 new battery modules annually.
  • Partnership with Primobius and collaboration with German research institutes.
Mercedes-Benz Launches Battery Recycling Plant

Mercedes-Benz’s battery recycling facility marks an important milestone in advancing sustainability and resource conservation in the automotive industry. By using an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process, the company ensures an efficient recovery of raw materials, significantly reducing the consumption of primary resources. Unlike traditional pyrometallurgy, this approach is less energy-intensive and operates at lower temperatures, which also helps in reducing environmental impact.

The plant is built on a double-digit million-euro investment, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainability and value creation within Germany. The facility not only focuses on material recovery but also contributes to local economic growth and technological innovation through its partnerships with technology provider Primobius and collaborations with various German universities.

Mercedes-Benz Launches Battery Recycling Plant

The annual capacity of 2,500 tonnes makes the plant a significant contributor to the company’s battery production goals, particularly as Mercedes-Benz continues to scale its electric vehicle offerings. The recovered materials will be used in producing new battery cells, ultimately contributing to the circularity of battery technology. This is part of the company’s broader strategy, including initiatives like the Design for Circularity approach at the Mercedes-Benz eCampus in Stuttgart.

Sustainability remains at the core of Mercedes-Benz’s business strategy, ensuring that long-term value is created for all stakeholders. The new battery recycling plant is a testament to the brand’s innovative strength and dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint, thus paving the way for more sustainable electric mobility and reinforcing Germany’s position as a leader in automotive technology and green innovation.

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