Stellantis and Orano have inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to form a joint venture (JV) to recycle end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries and industrial scrap generated from gigafactories across North America and Europe.
The partnership will see Orano’s low-carbon technology recovering all materials from lithium-ion batteries and the production of new cathode elements. The resulting product, named “active mass” or “black mass,” is set to undergo further refinement in Orano’s hydrometallurgical plant located in Dunkirk, France. This process ensures that these reclaimed materials are integrated into future battery production.
The deal will provide Stellantis, which includes brands such as Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and more, with additional access to cobalt, nickel, and lithium necessary for electrification and energy transition, the company said.
One notable aspect of this collaboration is its potential to assist other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in meeting European Union-mandated recycling rates for EV batteries.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the JV will invest in reskilling and upskilling Stellantis and Orano employees. The production phase is slated to start in the early part of 2026, utilizing existing Stellantis assets and facilities.
