Italian truck and bus manufacturer, Iveco Group [IVG:IM], has joined forces with German chemicals group BASF [BAS:GR] to implement a recycling program for lithium-ion batteries used in its electric vehicles (BEVs), as reported by Reuters on January 23. The collaboration, outlined in a statement on Tuesday, is aligned with Iveco’s circular economy strategy, aiming to extend the lifespan of batteries and minimize their environmental impact. The partnership also adheres to the Extended Producer Responsibility policy, expanding manufacturers’ accountability throughout a product’s entire life cycle, including post-consumer and end-of-life management.

Under the agreement, BASF, a key supplier of chemicals for automotive batteries, will oversee the complete recycling process for Iveco’s lithium-ion batteries used in BEV vans, buses, and trucks. This process includes collection, packaging, transport, and recycling across multiple European countries. BASF will employ mechanical methods to transform batteries into a “black mass,” enabling the extraction and reuse of raw materials like nickel, cobalt, and lithium. The recycled metals will then be supplied to Europe’s local battery industry. Iveco’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, Angela Qu, expressed confidence in BASF’s extensive battery collection network and recycling capabilities, stating that they will facilitate a closed loop from end-of-life batteries to the creation of new ones.

Sources:

https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/truck-bus-maker-iveco-partners-with-basf-battery-recycling-2024-01-23/