Forge Nano Inc., a technology company focused on advancing domestic battery and semiconductor technologies, announced its development of a lithium-ion battery cell intended for the US Defense Department. This development emphasizes the use of battery materials exclusively sourced from within the US. The 18650 cylindrical cell is designed to offer high capacity and energy density, conforming to the Defense Department's standards for cycle life and operating temperatures. Paul Lichty, CEO of Forge...

Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., announced that it has received an order from a leading automotive manufacturer for a full-battery-electric vehicle (full-BEV) thermoplastic composite lower battery housing unit. This component is part of the Kautex Pentatonic battery enclosure portfolio, aimed at supporting the production of battery-electric and hybrid electric vehicles (BEVs and HEVs). The Pentatonic product line offers customizable and lightweight electric vehi...

BMW is using a new electrical steel strip from Voestalpine in its latest generation electric motors (e-motors), which will be used in its Neue Klasse vehicles, according to a report by Electrive on July 24. The automaker reached an agreement with Voestalpine for sourcing electric steel from its Linz site in Austria. BMW is producing new e-motors at its engine plant in Steyr, Austria. This production involves a new material developed by Voestalpine that combines ultrathin electrical steel...

Yokohama Rubber announced that it is supplying 20-inch ADVAN Sport V107 tires as original equipment (OE) for the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 534MATIC+ coupe, starting June. The coupe will be fitted with the innovative tires in size 265/35ZR20 (99Y) in the front and 295/30ZR20 (101Y) in the rear. Yokohama Rubber has been supplying 19-inch ADVAN Sport V107 tires for this model since 2024. The ADVAN Sport V107 tire is an ultrahigh-performance (UHP) tire under Yokohama's ADVAN brand and is aimed at...

Viam, an engineering platform specializing in data, AI and automation, has announced a partnership with the Swiss nuclear engineering company Transmutex. This collaboration aims to assist Transmutex in developing durable ion source systems to break down nuclear waste, addressing the challenge of managing long-lived radioactive waste by transforming it into shorter-lived isotopes. The project focuses on reducing unexpected shutdowns of ion sources, which can take up to five days to restart, ...

Brembo has entered a partnership with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the world's largest producer of premium aluminum, to procure CelestiAL solar aluminum for use in its braking systems. The United Arab Emirates-based EGA produces CelestiAL aluminum using solar energy. This significantly reduces the emissions associated with aluminum smelting. Aluminum is a key raw material that Brembo uses in the production of its calipers, which, alongside the disc, represent its leading te...

Boston Metal has announced a $51 million convertible note investment from existing investors such as BHP Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Piva Capital and SiteGround. This funding reflects continued investor confidence in the company's team, technology and strategy. The funds will be used to support the second phase of Boston Metal's critical metals plant in Brazil, expected to be operational by mid-2026, and further develop its green steel solution. According to Laurel Buckner, vice pres...

General Motors (GM) has entered a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Redwood Materials to enhance the deployment of energy storage systems using GM's new US-manufactured batteries and second-life battery packs from GM electric vehicles. This initiative aims to extend GM's advanced battery technology beyond EVs, building on the existing collaboration between the two companies. “The market for grid-scale batteries and backup power isn’t just expanding, it’s becoming essent...

Tata Steel UK has begun work on installing an electric arc furnace (EAF) in Port Talbot, the UK, as part of its green transformation efforts, The Hindu BusinessLine reported July 14. The groundbreaking ceremony, which marked the start of construction for the low-carbon steelmaking facility, was attended by Tata Steel Chairman N Chandrasekaran, CEO and Managing Director TV Narendran and Tata Steel UK CEO Rajesh Nair. The project involves an investment of £1.25 billion, including a �...

Redwood Materials, led by former Tesla Chief Technology Officer JB Straubel, has developed the largest energy-storage installation using used electric vehicle batteries. Located outside Reno, Nevada, this project utilizes 792 individual EV battery packs spread over 2 acres and is surrounded by a field of solar panels. The installation, hailed as a breakthrough in the field of second-life batteries, delivers 63 MWh of second-life grid storage, supporting a miniature datacenter built by the startu...

VinFast entered into a partnership with BatX Energies to start battery recycling and reuse services for its electric vehicles in India. Under this collaboration, BatX Energies will be responsible for recycling high-voltage batteries and recovering essential materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel. These materials will then be reused in manufacturing new batteries for VinFast India's factory, enhancing after-sales services and minim...

Pirelli has launched the first standard production tire for the global market containing over 70% bio-based and recycled materials, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified natural rubber, which is used to ensure responsible management of the natural rubber supply chain. This certification is projected to cover all natural rubber used in Pirelli's factories in Europe by 2026. Specifically developed for JLR, the newly launched Pirelli P Zero tire will be offered for selected 22-inc...

Bridgestone Corp. has reached an agreement to sell the carbon black business in Thailand, operated by the wholly owned subsidiary Bridgestone Carbon Black (Thailand) Co. Ltd., to Tokai Carbon Co. Ltd. and Thai Tokai Carbon Product Co. Ltd. According to the Japanese tiremaker, the divestment is its strategy to enhance its global business by “turning changes into opportunities” and focusing on “growth with quality.” Bridgestone aimed to improve its premium tire business by increa...

OPmobility has secured a contract from an automaker in India to develop and supply a full bumper and grille for a light-duty truck model, the company said in a press release on June 30. The French supplier delivered a prototype and production-ready solution in under 15 months, far quicker than the typical 26-month timeline in India. OPmobility plans to commence the production of the new bumper and grille by the end of 2026. This contract signifies OPmobility's strengthening presence in the In...

BYD has reached a supply agreement with voestalpine for procuring steel for its new passenger car factory in Szeged, Hungary. The facility is expected to begin manufacturing new-energy vehicles (NEVs) by the end of 2025.  This partnership marks a key milestone in BYD's policy of localized production, sourcing high-quality auto parts from local suppliers to support its goal of producing cars in Europe for Europe. Voestalpine was chosen for its geographical proximity to the Hunga...

The Salzgitter Group is expanding its strategic partnership with one of its key customers, Volvo Cars. Starting in 2026, significant amounts of steel scrap from the Swedish carmaker’s body parts plant in Olofström, southern Sweden, will be sold to the Germany-based steelmaker. Salzgitter provides high-quality flat steel to Volvo Cars’ plant. The company will also start acquiring substantial quantities of the steel scrap produced there. This scrap will b...

TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of TDK Corp., is expanding into the European market, establishing its first office in London. The company has also launched a $150 million multilimited-partner fund named EX1 to support clean technology and sustainable energy solutions in Europe and North America. The EX1 fund will target energy-transformation startups in the Seed and Series A stages. This strategic decision aligns with TDK Ventures' dedication to electrification&nbs...

Nippon Steel Corp. and United States Steel Corp. have finalized a significant partnership, concluding an 18-month process marked by political scrutiny and national security considerations. Under the terms of the $14.9 billion agreement, Nippon Steel has acquired all outstanding shares of U.S. Steel at $55 per share, while U.S. Steel will retain its iconic name and headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The steel produced will continue to be “mined, melted and made” in the US, pr...

Hyundai Steel, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), plans to supply 100,000 metric tons of auto steel sheets to GM Korea, starting in September, The Korea Herald reported June 13. This decision follows GM Korea's move to change its steel sheet supplier from mainland China-based steel manufacturer Baoshan Iron & Steel amid quality certification processes. The supply will account for 20% of GM Korea's annual steel sheet consumption. This marks Hyundai Steel's first substanti...

Volvo Cars has entered into a new sourcing agreement with the Sweden-based steel company SSAB for the supply of high-quality, recycled and near-zero emissions steel, beginning 2025. The agreement makes Volvo Cars the first car manufacturer to secure a supply agreement with SSAB for recycled, near-zero emissions steel intended for serial production. This agreement extends a long-term collaboration aimed at promoting sustainable steel. Volvo Cars is also advancing its circular sustainability go...

US Critical Materials Corp. and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) are undertaking efforts to bolster America's access to critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs) by developing an environmentally responsible demonstration facility on the Idaho National Laboratory Campus. This initiative is in response to a March Executive Order by President Donald Trump, which declared a national emergency due to US reliance on foreign nations for these essential materials. REEs are vital for the US' def...

Posco Holdings, the parent company of South Korea-based steel manufacturer and battery materials supplier Posco Group, has inaugurated a key minerals research center in Perth, Australia. This initiative is part of the group's strategy to gain a technological advantage in advanced materials, which includes steelmaking, battery materials and rare earths. The center aims to enhance low-carbon steelmaking processes and reduce costs in lithium and nickel production. Additionally, it will focus on dev...

Canada-based rare earth elements (REEs) recycling company Cyclic Materials and micromobility service provider Lime have signed a strategic agreement to recycle magnets from retired electric motors in e-bikes and e-scooters across Canada and the US. The partnership between the two companies marks the first major recycling initiative of rare earth magnets in North America's micromobility sector. Cyclic plans to recover these materials from decommissioned motors in Lime's markets,...

On May 23, US President Donald Trump announced a partnership between US Steel and Nippon Steel without explicitly endorsing the previously announced takeover of the US-based steelmaker by the Japanese rival. “I am proud to announce that, after much consideration and negotiation, US Steel remains in America and keeps its headquarters in the great city of Pittsburgh,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform. “My tariff policies will ensure that stee...

MAHLE has completed the first year of its operations at the Global Biomobility Center, which is located at its Tech Center in Jundiaí, São Paulo. The center was established to utilize MAHLE's expertise and partner network in South America to support the global development of sustainable mobility solutions, focusing on biofuels and biomaterials. During its first year, the center has initiated eight projects in collaboration with customers and research institutes. It is actively monitori...

Saudi Arabia Mining Co. (Maaden) has entered into an agreement with MP Materials Corp., a US company involved in producing rare earths, to explore the creation of a fully integrated rare earth supply chain in Saudi Arabia. The companies plan to develop a vertically integrated operation that includes mining, separation, refining and the production of magnets within Saudi Arabia to bolster industrial growth and contribute to downstream sectors. This initiative was formalized with a memoran...

Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd., a company of the India-based Tata Group and a key supplier to Tata Motors, and Katcon Global, a Mexico-based company specializing in automotive exhaust systems, thermal insulation and advanced materials components, have established a joint venture in Mexico. This JV will focus on producing advanced composites aimed at the North American market, specifically targeting lightweight applications for a variety of vehicles as well as specialized non...

Nexen Tire has entered a long-term supply agreement with LD Carbon for sourcing recovered carbon black (rCB) for use in tire manufacturing. South Korea-based LD Carbon specializes in resource circulation and material recycling, and its rCB is produced by pyrolyzing end-of-life tires in an oxygen-free environment, significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. This partnership enables Nexen Tire to enhance its eco-friendly tire manufacturing by replacing petrol...

Hyundai Motor Group announced the opening of the Hyundai Center of Excellence (CoE) for future mobility technology at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi on April 23. This center represents a joint research initiative aimed at advancing future mobility technologies, particularly focusing on electrification and battery systems to cater to Indian customers' needs. The Group has launched nine joint research projects in collaboration with various IITs as part of its long-term cooperati...

Hyundai Motor Group and Posco Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate in the steel and battery sectors, aiming to enhance their global competitiveness. The agreement, signed in Seoul, South Korea, focuses on boosting Hyundai's resilience to the rapidly changing global market and strengthening Posco's position as a supplier of automotive steel and key battery materials. A significant aspect of this collaboration is Posco's planned equity investment in Hyundai ...

Hankook Tire will start supplying tires for Hyundai Motor's IONIQ 9 electric sport utility vehicle, Yonhap News Agency reported April 11. The South Korean tiremaker will equip the flagship electric SUV of Hyundai with its iON evo AS SUV tires as original equipment. The iON evo AS SUV tire is an all-season tire, designed especially for electric vehicles. It features a new compound material that enhances driving performance under various conditions and prevents unusual wear and tear. ...

Hyundai Mobis plans to start using low-carbon aluminum produced with solar energy in the production of major automotive components, as part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. This initiative not only addresses the need for lighter materials in the production of electric vehicles but also aligns with the company's efforts to enhance its green supply chain from the raw material procurement phase. Hyundai Mobis has secured a contract with Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA), headquarte...

Stellantis has announced a partnership with the Competence Industry Manufacturing 4.0 (CIM4.0) to drive the advancement of additive manufacturing within the automotive industry. This collaborative effort seeks to integrate the expertise and technologies of CIM4.0 with those already present at Stellantis, specifically within the Mirafiori Engineering hub in Turin, Italy. The focal point of this partnership is the enhancement of 3D printing capabilities, which is expected to streamline producti...

O9 Solutions, a company that has developed an AI software platform that is used for planning and decision-making, has entered into a software-as-a-service or SaaS agreement with Japan’s largest vehicle manufacturer Toyota Motor Corporation, o9 Solutions announced on March 31. As part of the agreement, Toyota will deploy o9’s advanced supply chain management platform, which is expected to help the vehicle manufacturer in optimizing its supply chain operations and drive greater efficiency i...

Energy Fuels Inc., a leading US producer of uranium, rare earth elements (REE) and heavy mineral sands (HMS), has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with South Korea-based Posco International Corp., aiming to fast-track the formation of a commercial permanent rare earth magnet supply chain. This collaboration aims to utilize Energy Fuels' US rare earth oxide production with Posco's expertise in traction motor cores for electric vehicle and hybrid EV drivetrains, positio...

Stellantis has partnered with Swedish startup Luvly AB to evaluate its light, electric flatpack vehicle technology, according to a news report published by Zag Daily on March 13. The report mentioned that the Stockholm-based startup, which was founded in 2015, has built an ultraefficient, ready-to-assemble electric car that can be distributed using a flat-pack shipping method. The startup has designed and developed a light urban vehicle, which is a small electric car for city use. The model �...

Miru Smart Technologies, a Canada-based company specializing in innovative smart window technology, has unveiled one of the world's largest electrochromic sunroof window devices for the automotive industry. This development is the result of a collaboration with Argotec, a brand of the US-based specialty materials supplier, Mativ, utilizing Argotec's advanced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) interlayer films. It highlights the commercial viability and scalability of Miru's sustainable window solu...

Constellium announced Feb. 24 that it will be participating in Project M-LightEn, an ambitious new initiative to develop ultralightweight, sustainable vehicle chassis structures. The project is led by Gordon Murray Group (GMG) and supported by Innovate UK and the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). Participants in the project include Constellium, Carbon ThreeSixty and Brunel University London. Over the next three years, the consortium aims to achieve breakthrough innovations in unibody veh...

SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd. and Huawei Device Co. Ltd. have signed a strategic agreement in Shanghai to cooperate in the development, manufacturing, supply chain management, sales and service of new-energy smart cars, SAIC announced Feb. 21. Jia Jianxu, president of SAIC Motor, and Wang Yanmin, president of Huawei’s Device Smart Car Business Unit, signed the contract on behalf of SAIC Motor and Huawei, respectively. The signing event was attended by Wang Xiaoqiu, chairman of SAIC Motor,...

Kobe Steel has registered a joint venture company in mainland China for producing automotive aluminum panels. This development came after receiving approval from regulatory authorities in Japan and mainland China, following an agreement signed on Aug. 8, 2024, with Baoshan Iron & Steel Co. Ltd. and Baowu Aluminum Technology Co. Ltd., subsidiaries of China Baowu Steel Group. The JV aims to integrate continuous heat treatment and finishing lines for aluminum panels to cater to the increasing d...

Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global coatings company, and Dürr Systems AG, a leading mechanical and plant engineering firm, have entered into a partnership to offer a digital paint solution, which combines Axalta’s NextJet technology with Dürr’s robotics integration, Dürr announced on January 22. Digital paint, which is also referred to as overspray-free application, is an advanced paint application that allows for precise paint placement. Under the terms of this strategic agreeme...

Hankook Tires and Solvay have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) focused on advancing sustainable tire manufacturing by developing innovative circular silica derived from bio-sourced and waste materials. This collaboration combines Solvay's expertise in silica technology with Hankook's tire manufacturing capabilities and its prominent market position. Solvay's silica is known for its ability to lower rolling resistance, which not only reduces fuel consumption in vehicles with the...

Autoneum has played a significant role in the development of the Renault Emblème, a low-carbon demonstration car designed by Renault Group aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 90% over the vehicle's entire life cycle. As a key partner, the Switzerland-based company has enhanced its sustainable Pure technologies for use in various interior and exterior components of the vehicle, leveraging its expertise in lightweight, recyclable monomaterials, life cycle analysis (LCA) and product inno...

In a press release dated Dec. 19, Autoneum annnounced that it has played a significant role in the development of the Renault Emblème, a low-carbon demonstration car by Renault Group designed to lower greenhouse gas emissions by 90% over its lifespan. Autoneum contributed by optimizing its Pure technologies, known for their sustainability performance, and by supplying about thirty fiber-based components for the car, enhancing sustainability through high recycled content and a waste-free pr...

McClarin and ExxonMobil's Proxxima business have decided to collaborate to develop the launch of a high-speed machine-driven resin transfer molding (RTM) technology, according to a report by Plastics Today on Dec. 13. The new technology is expected to help accelerate growth of high-speed, closed-mold composites manufacturing. The joint development agreement includes a multimillion-dollar investment in automated RTM infrastructure at McClarin’s Oklahoma City, US, facility. The agreement...

Cyclic Materials, an emerging leader in the advanced metals recycling industry focused on creating a circular supply chain for rare earth elements (REEs) and other critical metals, has entered into a significant multiyear offtake agreement with global natural resources company Glencore. This deal pertains to the supply of recycled copper, produced at Cyclic Materials' Spoke operations. The partnership is aimed at bolstering sustainable practices within the rare earths sector and promoting the...

ABB has initiated a strategic collaboration with Engineering Software Steyr GmbH (ESS), an Austria-based provider of precision paint shop simulation software, aimed at revolutionizing automotive paint shop operations. This partnership is focused on developing advanced simulation tools that promise to significantly reduce operational costs by as much as 30%. Through this collaboration, ABB will also make a minority investment in ESS, although the financial specifics of this investment remain u...

In a press release on Dec. 4, DENSO announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Canatu to further the practical application of carbon nanotube technology, a move aimed at enhancing autonomous driving technology and promoting carbon neutrality. The partnership is set to build on the companies' existing collaborations, especially in overcoming visibility issues in vehicles caused by frost and condensation through the development of transparent conductive films. Carbon nanotubes, known fo...

Tata Elxsi has launched an offshore development center in Pune, Maharashtra, India, in collaboration with Suzuki Motor. The center, Suzuki-Tata Elxsi Offshore Development Center, will drive the Japanese automaker’s advancements in engineering, emphasizing sustainability and future readiness in the automotive sector. Tata Elxsi will play a crucial role in supporting Suzuki's vision for eco-friendly mobility, focusing on lightweight design, safety, styling, engineering, the use of environment...

Midas Vantage Projects (MVP) Lithium Ltd., recognized globally for its leadership in green lithium extraction technologies, has announced receiving a letter of intent (LOI) from Evove Ltd., a prominent UK company specializing in clean energy solutions. This LOI signifies Evove's commitment to commissioning MVP Lithium's advanced direct lithium extraction (DLE) plant in 2025, contingent upon successful industrial-scale brine processing using Evove's equipment at its UK testing facility and an on-...

Novonix Ltd., an Australia-based battery materials and technology company, has entered into a binding offtake agreement with Stellantis to supply a minimum of 86,250 metric tons and up to 115,000 metric tons of high-performance synthetic graphite material. This agreement spans over six years, starting from 2026, and involves supplying material to Stellantis' cell manufacturing partners in North America from Novonix's Riverside, Tennessee, facility and a future expansion site. Chris ...

At the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg, Germany, thyssenkrupp Steel and Volkswagen Group signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the future supply of low-carbon steel, produced at thyssenkrupp Steel's direct reduction plant set to be operational by 2027. This plant will utilize hydrogen and green electricity, enabling a substantial reduction in carbon footprint compared to conventional steel production methods. Initially, natural gas will be used as a reducing age...

Graphite One Inc., aiming to establish a comprehensive US supply chain for advanced graphite materials, has reached a significant milestone by signing two agreements with Hunan Chenyu Fuji New Energy Technology Co. Ltd., a leading anode active material (AAM) manufacturer from Changsha City, mainland China. These agreements, comprising a technology license agreement and a consulting agreement, are crucial for Graphite One to introduce cutting-edge AAM manufacturing technology to US domestic batte...

Kirchhoff Automotive is set to showcase its latest advancements in lightweight construction and safety at the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg, Germany's Allerpark from Oct. 22 to 24. Operating under the theme MAKING.MOBILITY.SAFE and emphasizing Empowering Partnerships, the company will present the outcomes of collaborative efforts with Volkswagen AG (VW). This event will serve as a platform for VW suppliers, board members, purchasers and developers to discuss innovations...

Sila Nanotechnologies Inc., a company specializing in next-generation battery materials, has entered into a multiyear supply agreement with a wholly owned subsidiary of REC Silicon ASA, a company known for its innovation in solar-grade silicon and silicon materials. As per the agreement, REC will supply Sila with high-quality, US-produced silane, which is crucial for the production of Sila's nano-composite silicon anode material known as Titan Silicon. This partnership not only secures a reli...

Volkswagen has entered into a cooperation with the German startup Revoltech GmbH from Darmstadt, Germany, to jointly focus on the research and development of sustainable materials based on industrial hemp, Volkswagen announced Aug. 30. The cooperation agreement is part of Volkswagen’s larger strategy of using sustainable surface materials in its models from 2028. According to the press note, the material the two companies plan to work on will be made from 100% bio-based hemp, which ...

Tetra Technologies and venture capital fund PureTerra Ventures have recently invested in KMX Technologies, a developer specializing in lithium technology, to aid in the commercial launch of products designed for the processing of electric vehicle battery metals. This investment falls within the direct lithium extraction sector, which is rapidly expanding and attracting significant investment due to its potential to revolutionize lithium production methods. The financial details of the investment...

GEM has recently entered into a strategic collaboration with South Korea's EcoPro BM Co. Ltd. by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on strategic cooperation in the entire industry chain of secondary battery raw materials at the QMB in Indonesia. This agreement signifies a further consolidation of a decade-long partnership between GEM and EcoPro, enhancing their roles in the secondary battery raw materials industry. A significant aspect of the agreement involves EcoPro BM committing t...

AZL Aachen GmbH, based in Aachen, Germany, has unveiled a joint partner project to develop composite fiber reinforcement sleeves for electric motors, addressing the demand for more efficient, powerful and compact electric motors in mobility and industrial sectors. The nine-month project, named Rotor Sleeves for Electric Motors: Potentials for Composites Materials and Technology, aims to explore the current and future applications of electric motors, focusing on the armoring sleeves' requirements...

Kobe Steel Ltd. has formalized a joint venture agreement with Baowu Aluminum Technology Co. Ltd. (Baowu Aluminum) and Baoshan Iron & Steel Co. Ltd., both part of the China Baowu Steel Group Corp. Ltd. — the largest steel producer in China, to manufacture automotive aluminum panels in China. With a 50% shareholding split between Kobe Steel and a joint share by Baoshan Iron & Steel and Baowu Aluminum, the JV will be headquartered in Shanghai, and will operate manufacturing...

Hyundai Glovis, a leading logistics and distribution company in South Korea, has entered into a strategic partnership for battery recycling with Chinese firm Huayou Cobalt, a recognized leader in the production of cobalt and high-nickel products essential for electric vehicle batteries. This collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by Hyundai Glovis CEO Lee Kyoo-bok and Huayou Recycling General Manager Bao Wei at Huayou Recycling's headquarters in Zhejiang, China...

Vedanta Nico, India's leading nickel producer, has entered into a strategic partnership with AEsir Technologies, a US-based company specializing in advanced battery technologies, through a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU). This collaboration builds upon an existing relationship with Hindustan Zinc, aiming to develop and commercialize nickel-zinc (NiZn) batteries for various applications including electric vehicle chargers, critical infrastructure and 5G telecom. As part of the agreeme...

Continental has entered a long-term purchase agreement with Pyrum Innovations, a leader in thermolysis technology, for the supply of high-quality recovered carbon black (rCB) derived from end-of-life tires. This initiative marks an essential step in Continental's strategy to incorporate more sustainable materials into its passenger car tires. It aligns with the company's broader goal to increase the use of renewable and recycled materials in its products to over 40% by 2030. The collaboration be...

Graphite One (G1), which is working to develop a complete supply chain for advanced graphite materials in the US, has entered into a non-binding supply agreement with electric-car maker Lucid to supply active anode materials (AAM), the company said in a press release on July 25. “G1 is excited to continue pushing forward developing our 100% U.S. domestic supply chain,” said Anthony Huston, president and CEO of Graphite One. “Subject to project financing required to build the AAM facilit...

Nippon Steel, a leading steel producer from Japan, has announced its decision to exit a joint venture with Baoshan Iron & Steel (Baosteel), a significant move that marks the end of a long-standing partnership that symbolized China's advancements in modernizing its steel industry. This withdrawal will see Nippon Steel's steel-production capacity in China decrease by 70%. The decision comes against the backdrop of Japanese automakers, who are primary customers of Nippon Steel, facing challe...

Borouge, in collaboration with ADNOC and Borealis, has formed a consortium that recently entered into a project collaboration agreement with Wanhua Chemical Group and its subsidiary, Wanrong New Materials (Fujian), based in mainland China, for a specialty polyolefins project. The partnership focuses on conducting a feasibility study for a new greenfield project in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, mainland China. This initiative aims to explore the development of a 1.6 million metric tons per year spe...

Panasonic Energy Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of the Panasonic Group, has announced a partnership with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia's national science agency, to develop new processing technologies for nickel laterite ores. This initiative aims to recover nickel, a vital component for lithium-ion batteries, which are essential for various technologies, including electric vehicles. The collaboration seeks to harness Australian nickel laterite resou...

JLR, formerly known as Jaguar Land Rover, has reached an agreement with Pirelli to use tires made with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified natural rubber across its model lineups, the carmaker said in a press release on July 11. FSC is an international, non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting responsible management of forests worldwide. It offers certification for various industries, including fashion, fiber, furniture, natural rubber, paper and packaging, and wood, which rel...

Iveco Group NV has entered into a research and development partnership with the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), under the endorsement of the Luxembourg Ministry of Higher Education and Research. The partnership will focus on the development of sustainable and lightweight composite materials specifically tailored for transport applications, a move that aligns with Iveco Group's strategy toward achieving net-zero-emission mobility. This collaboration is to be co...

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a partnership with Pirelli to incorporate Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified natural rubber tires across JLR's range of modern luxury vehicles, according to a press release on July 11. This initiative, a first on such a scale in the global automotive sector, will see JLR adopting over 250,000 FSC-certified tires annually, starting with the new Range Rover Electric. This collaboration aligns with JLR's Reimagine strategy, underscoring its commitmen...

Mining development company Critical Metals has finalized an agreement with Obeikan Group to form a joint venture, Arabian New Energy, to build a large-scale lithium hydroxide processing plant in Saudi Arabia. The plant will process spodumene concentrate produced from the Wolfsberg Lithium Project located in Austria. The incorporation of the equally owned joint venture is awaiting successful registration and approval by Saudi regulatory authorities.  Arabian New Energy will seek to have e...

In a press release dated July 2, Pure Energy Minerals announced that it has entered into a partnership with SLB to sustainably develop at scale lithium claims held by Pure Energy in the Clayton Valley in the United States. SLB has set up a demonstration plant onsite to test an integrated approach that combines subsurface expertise and surface engineering of advanced technologies, including direct lithium extraction (DLE). Pure Energy Minerals said that it has received all necessary permits fr...

Gestamp, a Spanish multinational known for its expertise in designing, developing and manufacturing metal components for the automotive industry, has entered into an agreement with Acciaieria Arvedi, an Italian steel producer, to supply original equipment manufacturers with sustainably produced low-emissions steel components. The collaboration leverages Acciaieria Arvedi's ARVZERO steel, which is carbon-neutral certified and derived from high-quality scrap. Gestamp has chosen Acciai...

Syensqo, a global provider of advanced performance materials and chemical solutions, has announced a new collaborative venture with NIO Inc., a prominent figure in the premium smart electric vehicle market, with the opening of a state-of-the-art joint laboratory. This development was celebrated with an opening ceremony at the new NIO House in Shanghai, attended by notable figures including Dr. Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo, and Mr. Bi Lu, assistant vice president at NIO. The collaboration between ...

LG Energy Solution and Liontown Resources have entered into a long-term strategic partnership, aimed at bolstering their collaboration within the global lithium industry. This strategic alliance was memorialized through a convertible note subscription agreement, an extended offtake agreement for the supply of lithium spodumene from Liontown's Kathleen Valley project, and a downstream collaboration agreement to investigate the feasibility of establishing a lithium refinery, offering potential for...

SK On, a prominent electric vehicle battery manufacturer, has entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ExxonMobil, aiming to secure a potentially substantial supply of US-produced lithium. This initiative is part of SK On's broader strategy to fortify its battery supply chain in the US. The MOU paves the way for SK On to explore a multiyear agreement with ExxonMobil that could see it receive up to 100,000 metric tons of lithium from a project in Arkansas, US. Although...

Cyclic Materials and Solvay have entered into an agreement where Cyclic Materials will supply recycled mixed rare earth oxide (rMREO) to Solvay's plant in La Rochelle, France, from its upcoming Hub100 facility in Ontario. Shipments are expected to begin in late 2024. This agreement builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2023 and follows successful validation of Cyclic Materials' product with Solvay's rare earth separation process. The collaboration marks a significant step...

Super Screws Pvt Ltd has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mitsuchi Corporation of Japan, signaling a significant collaboration aimed at establishing a joint venture for the manufacturing and global distribution of special cold forged parts. The proposed venture will involve setting up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in India dedicated to producing top-tier cold forged parts for both the domestic and international markets.  This initiative is set to enh...

Covestro, Neste and Borealis have entered into a partnership for a project that will enable the recycling of discarded tires into high-quality plastics for automotive applications, according to a press release on June 11. The tires are liquefied by means of chemical recycling and then processed into base chemicals and further into polycarbonates of high purity. These can then be used in various automotive applications, from parts of headlamps to radiator grilles. The first products based on t...

Meijo Nano Carbon Co. Ltd., a startup company specializing in the production of high-quality single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), has formed a capital and business alliance with SK Inc. Materials, a subsidiary of the prominent South Korean conglomerate, SK Group. The investment from SK Inc. Materials will further facilitate collaborations in the lithium-ion battery (LIB) field. Silicon, deemed the next-generation anode material, is anticipated to replace graphite used in conventional...

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. and Mitsubishi Corporation have announced plans to establish a new 50-50 joint venture company, ALTNA Co. Ltd., in July 2024. The venture is the result of a memorandum of understanding signed by the two companies in October 2023, aimed at launching new businesses to capitalize on expected growth in the electric vehicle (EV) market and to support a future decarbonized society. The joint venture aims to address challenges such as optimizing the cost of EV usage, enhancing t...

Volkswagen AG and Vulcan Green Steel have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a partnership for low-carbon steel, which is a key element of the German carmaker’s green steel strategy, VW announced June 12. The volumes of low-carbon steel that Volkswagen AG expects to order will cover a significant proportion of total steel requirements and will be used by the VW Group’s production facilities from 2027 onward, the company said. It further added that the fully vertically integ...

Altilium, a UK-based clean technology group, and Enva, a recycling and resource recovery specialist, have announced a strategic partnership for the collection and recycling of electric vehicle batteries in the UK. This partnership leverages Enva's nationwide collection infrastructure and relationships with car dealerships, alongside Altilium's expertise in recycling EV batteries and recovering critical materials, including lithium. The firms will explore key initiatives such as the safe handl...

In a press release dated June 3, Fortum announced that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Marubeni Corp. to develop a sustainable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery recycling chain with a focus on graphite recycling. Marubeni will assist Fortum by supplying in-process waste materials and processing chemicals, and exploring potential graphite and lithium recycling technologies. This partnership aims to create a recycling value chain to meet market demand, while also in...

Li-Cycle Holdings Corp., a global lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery-resource recovery company, has partnered with Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) to recycle Li-ion batteries from DTNA electric vehicles that have reached the end of their life cycle, Li-Cycle announced in a press release on May 30. This recycling process plays a critical part in DTNA's strategy to maximize battery lifespans, minimize material waste and address global sustainability challenges. Through its recycling technolog...

Jiangsu Changshu Automotive Trim Group (CAIP) and new-energy vehicle (NEV) startup Leapmotor have agreed to establish a joint venture to develop, produce and sell automotive interior and exterior systems, including dashboards, door panels, pillars and modular parts. The JV, set to be based in Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, mainland China, will focus on the development and production of lightweight and innovative material parts, molds and intelligent equipment, thus enhancing Leapmo...

According to a press release on May 15, TactoTek and Polestar have collaborated to integrate injection molded structural electronics (IMSE) technology into Polestar's vehicle designs, aiming to create more sustainable, lightweight and advanced electronic features for their customers. IMSE technology enables innovative interior and exterior lighting solutions, as well as modern human-machine interfaces, in lightweight, single-piece structures. By licensing TactoTek's IMSE technology, Polestar ...

LyondellBasell has announced a collaboration with Hunan Huda Aisheng Group (AISN) to develop lightweight plastic engine hood applications for new-energy vehicle (NEV) cars of premium domestic automotive brands, according to a press release on April 24. The collaboration aims to create innovative solutions for the automotive industry, driving energy conservation and environmental protection. LyondellBasell will leverage its expertise in material development and application, while AISN wil...

LG Chem has developed switchable glazing film (SGF) and signed a nomination agreement to supply it to German supplier Webasto, it said in a press release dated April 29. Webasto will use SGF films to build roof systems with integrated high-tech glass and install them in European vehicles. The SGF film business is expected to generate hundreds of billions of won in revenue over the next few years. SGF can control the amount of light and heat passing through by responding to electrical sig...

ABB and Vulcan Energy Resources have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly establish design, engineering, execution and operations plans for strategically important reserves of lithium in Europe, ABB announced April 24. Vulcan’s Zero Carbon Lithium project in Germany’s Upper Rhine Valley region aims to access naturally heated lithium-rich brine from underground reservoirs while using geothermal heat to produce renewable energy for the process. The agreement between the ...

Michelin, the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) and the University of Strasbourg have partnered to further develop electrospinning, a manufacturing process for innovative nanofibrous materials, according to an official statement April 15. The nanofibrous fiber that is reportedly "100 times thinner than a strand of hair." The teams will work over four years to design an innovative electrospinning platform, with the objective of creating innovative and differentiating fib...

Maserati has partnered with Aquafil to use Econyl, a regenerated nylon made from recovered nylon waste, in the cabin of its new all-electric Grecale crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV), Design News reported April 4. Aquafil is an Italian nylon fiber-maker that produces Econyl through a chemical recycling process that allows for infinite recyclability. “Chemical recycling, versus mechanical recycling, makes it infinitely recyclable. It is the same quality as petroleum nylon. You can b...

ESI Group and FAW-Volkswagen TE have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance intelligent simulation technology in the automotive industry, a press release dated April 2 read. The partnership aims to address the challenges posed by mainland China’s automotive safety regulations and drive innovation in the industry. A material testing and intelligent simulation joint laboratory was established, marking a significant step forward in intelligent simulation, innovation and research...

Ascend Performance Materials has entered into a distribution agreement with PolySource for the North American market, it said in a press release dated April 1. Under the agreement, PolySource will offer Ascend’s full portfolio of engineered nylons to its customer base, including Vydyne, Starflam, HiDura and ReDefyne polyamide products. These products are designed for use in various applications including automotive, electrical and electronic, healthcare, and consumer and industrial. "W...

Canada-based Cyclic Materials, a BMW-backed advanced metals recycling company, has signed an agreement with Vacuumschmelze (VAC), a leading developer of magnetic materials based in Germany, to build a circular supply chain for rare earth elements, with a focus on recycling the by-products containing critical materials used in high-performance permanent magnets, the company announced on March 18. The partnership between the two global companies aims to advance joint efforts to create a local a...