Second Edition of Battery Atlas Released, Emphasises Networking and Highlights European Battery Market Evolution

RWTH Aachen University has released the second, expanded edition of the Battery Atlas. This report focuses on the current state of several market sectors critical to the European battery industry.

Building on the previous edition, the 2024 report continues to map the involvement of cell manufacturers, module and pack producers, equipment and battery active material suppliers, recycling companies, and battery test centres. However, this new edition goes further by including market participants in battery quality assurance, passive cell components, and "second-life" applications for batteries after their initial use in electric vehicles. This reflects the evolution of the battery industry since the first edition's release two years ago.

The 2024 Atlas features nine thematic maps covering a large part of the battery life cycle. The maps outline the current status of key industry sectors, including "Battery Cell Manufacturers", "Module and Pack Manufacturers", "Battery Equipment Suppliers", "Active Material Suppliers", "Recycling Companies", "Battery Test Centers", "Battery Quality Assurance Companies", "Passive Battery Cell Component Companies" and "Second-Life Battery Companies".

The latest edition reviews the findings from the first Atlas, analyses the current situation, and provides an outlook for the future.

The Atlas emphasises the importance of collaboration for a robust European battery industry. Key recommendations include pooling resources, offering joint services, and advocating for increased government support for battery research at both national and European levels. In essence, networking offers the potential to accelerate new technology adoption or expand e-mobility.

The report finds that battery cell production in Europe is accelerating to meet the rising domestic demand. Additionally, production sites for automotive and cell manufacturer modules and packs are steadily increasing and the growing production capacity of battery materials in Europe has the potential to alleviate raw material shortages.

However, challenges remain. Recycling capacity needs a significant increase to handle the growing number of recyclable batteries. Improved standards are necessary to guide the outcomes of numerous European battery research projects and ensure safety. Currently, battery quality assurance companies and test centres are struggling to keep up with demand, highlighting the urgent need for upscaling in many areas.

Read the full report here.