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Volkswagen Group UK has strengthened its commitment to sustainability by renewing and enhancing its battery recycling program with Ecobat, aiming to bolster the circular energy economy. This partnership positions Volkswagen as the pioneer in utilizing the UK’s first lithium-ion battery recycling facility, underscoring its dedication to environmental responsibility.
Since 2014, Ecobat has been a key partner in Volkswagen’s sustainability efforts, initially focusing on lead acid batteries before expanding to high-voltage batteries in 2019. With the opening of Ecobat’s Diagnostics and Disassembly Centre in Darlaston, West Midlands, the company has processed thousands of batteries, showcasing its significant recycling capabilities.
The latest agreement between Volkswagen and Ecobat involves the collection and recycling of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, with Ecobat deploying ADR compliant vehicles to gather high-voltage batteries from a network of dealers, distributors, and recycling centers. These batteries will be recycled at Ecobat’s newly established UK lithium-ion recycling center, marking the company’s third such facility globally.
Sylvain Charbonnier, Director of One Aftersales for Volkswagen Group UK, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership with Ecobat, highlighting the increasing need for sustainable practices as the number of electric vehicles grows. “Working with our trusted partners, we are confident we can reassure our dealers and customers that we are responsibly moving towards our electrification goals,” he stated.
Elliott Ethridge, Vice President of Global Sales for Ecobat, also celebrated the extension of their decade-long relationship with Volkswagen, emphasizing the importance of recycling lithium-ion batteries to support sustainable lithium-ion battery production and the recovery of scarce materials.
Volkswagen AG’s global commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and its ambitious electrification initiative reflect its dedication to reducing carbon emissions. By 2030, Volkswagen aims to offer around 50 fully electric models, supported by a significant investment in digitalization and electrification.
Ecobat’s recycling operations not only comply with UK regulations but also adhere to stringent quality, environmental, health, and safety standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. This partnership between Volkswagen and Ecobat exemplifies a sustainable, circular approach to battery recycling, reducing waste and enhancing the environmental credentials of both companies.
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