In a significant advancement for Europe’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, Cylib, a startup supported by Porsche and Bosch, has commenced construction on a massive battery recycling plant in Dormagen, Germany. This facility, which is set to become the largest end-to-end lithium-ion battery recycling center in Europe, aims to address the growing need for sustainable battery solutions as the EV market expands.
Cylib’s new plant will cover an area of 236,000 square feet and is projected to recycle approximately 30,000 metric tons of end-of-life batteries annually. This capacity surpasses that of Hydrovolt, the current largest facility, which can process 12,000 metric tons per year. The project represents an investment exceeding 180 million euros (around $200 million), underscoring the commitment to developing a robust battery recycling infrastructure in Europe.
Founded in 2022 by Lilian Schwich, her husband Gideon Schwich, and Paul Sabarny, Cylib employs innovative water-based techniques to recover critical materials such as lithium and graphite from depleted batteries. The company’s approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also enhances the efficiency of material recovery, allowing for the repurposing of valuable resources.
The strategic location of the plant within Chempark, an established industrial area, provides access to existing supply chains, which is vital for operational efficiency. Operations are slated to begin in 2026, with the facility primarily serving clients in the automotive, battery manufacturing, and chemicals sectors.
Cylib’s recycling efforts align with the European Union’s emphasis on sustainable battery development, which is crucial for the transition to electric vehicles. The EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act aims to secure a sustainable supply of materials necessary for battery production, further highlighting the importance of initiatives like Cylib’s.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, Cylib’s new facility is poised to play a pivotal role in promoting a circular economy and reducing waste in the battery lifecycle. CEO Lilian Schwich stated, “Reaching industrial-scale production will be a key driver in building a robust European battery infrastructure.”
For More Details: https://ciolook.com/