Varta AG is driving the further development of its technology with the help of IPCEI funding ("Important Project of Common European Interest"): In addition to the development of the latest generation of small-format lithium-ion cells with even higher energy densities, the funding programme will focus on the transfer of the innovative Varta technology to larger formats. In the future, these battery cells could be used in Varta energy storage devices, robots, as well as in mobility applications.
These new battery formats are to be optimized on a pilot line and transferred to mass production. Varta is also continuing to invest in research and development activities for battery cells in special formats, which are increasingly in demand for IOT applications, for example.
First battery company in Germany
The Federal Ministry of Economics (BMWi) and the states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg are supporting the battery industry in Germany and Europe within the framework of an IPCEI. The federal and state governments are providing Varta AG with funding of up to 300 million euros for the project until the end of 2024.
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Peter Altmaier, Federal Minister of Economic Affairs and Energy, says: “I am delighted to be able to present Varta AG as the first company in Germany with a funding certificate for the production of battery cells. The establishment of innovative and sustainable battery cell production in Germany is a high priority for us. It is necessary to remain competitive, create new jobs and secure prosperity in line with the transformation of energy and transport. Today we are taking a big step towards our own large-scale production of battery cells for automotive and industrial applications.”
Around 1000 new jobs
Herbert Schein, CEO of Varta AG, says: “We managed to transfer our lithium-ion technology in Germany into highly profitable mass production. With the IPCEI, we will further expand Varta's lithium-ion technology, accelerate the development of the latest generations, and bring new products to market. I am pleased that politics is supporting this project, thus strengthening the battery industry.”
The Varta Group continues to invest in the expansion of its lithium-ion mass production and will create around 1000 new jobs in Ellwangen and Nördlingen by the end of next year. Varta is thus strengthening the battery industry, particularly in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, and emphasizes its importance as an employer in the region. (mfo)
