Stellantis and CATL aim for battery deal and joint venture
The non-binding agreement provides for the supply of LFP battery cells and modules by CATL for the production of Stellantis electric vehicles in Europe. Stellantis and CATL are also considering the establishment of a “balanced joint venture” to jointly develop a technology roadmap for Stellantis’ battery electric cars and to explore opportunities to further strengthen the battery value chain. Both companies will therefore probably hold 50 per cent of the shares if the joint venture is founded.
There are hardly any further details on the impending battery deal. The press release does not mention any delivery quantities, a potential term of the contract or when CATL is to supply the first LFP cells to Stellantis. Specific models are also not mentioned. Stellantis only states in general terms: “Featuring a long service life and high thermal stability, LFP technology can enable Stellantis to offer high-quality, durable, and affordable electric vehicles in passenger cars, crossovers and SUVs in the B and C segments.”
The first Stellantis model to use LFP cells is the Citroën ë-C3, which was presented in October. However, according to information from electrive, the first model on the CMP Smart Car platform developed for low-cost electric cars (up to seven further models are under consideration) will use cells from another manufacturer. Stellantis or Citroën have not yet officially commented on the cell supplier for the LFP batteries of the ë-C3. In addition to the aforementioned CMP Smart Car, Stellantis will also use the STLA Small and STLA Medium platforms in the B and C segments in future.
“This MoU with CATL on LFP battery chemistry is another ingredient in our long-term strategy to protect freedom of mobility for the European middle class,” says Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. “CATL is the industry leader in this sector and together with our iconic vehicle brands, we will bring innovative and accessible battery technology to our customers while helping us achieve our carbon net zero ambition by 2038.”
“We are very pleased to elevate our cooperation with Stellantis to a new level. With Stellantis’ time-honored expertise in car manufacturing and CATL’s advanced battery technology, we believe the partnership will be a decisive step on both parties’ journey towards carbon neutrality goals,” said Robin Zeng, Chairman and General Manager of CATL. “We will remain dedicated to delivering more competitive and sustainable solutions for our partners to promote global energy transition.”
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