OEM EV Strategies Around the World: EU OEMs (Series – Part 2)
The automotive industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with electrification at the forefront of the revolution. Major players such as General Motors, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and others are setting the stage for a future dominated by electric vehicles (EVs). In a series of 3 articles, we delve into the electrification strategies of these leading automakers, exploring their visions, investments, and innovative approaches to shape the future of transportation.
BMW
BMW is determined to reduce CO2 emissions and boost their electric vehicle lineup. They introduced 15 electric vehicles in 2022, with the Neue Klasse as the next generation BEV planned for 2025. BMW has a strategy of procuring cells under long-term supply contracts rather than in-house production.
In collaboration with companies like Solid Power and Our Next Energy, BMW is exploring all-solid-state batteries and innovative battery systems. They are also investing in lithium materials by supporting companies like Livent Corporation and Mangrove Lithium.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz aims to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2039, with over 50% of passenger car sales being BEVs and PHEVs by 2030. They have a comprehensive electrified model lineup and plan to invest heavily to reach their electrification goals.
Mercedes-Benz procures cells and assembles battery packs in-house and has formed strategic alliances with CATL and Farasis Energy. They are also investing in lithium material companies like Vulcan Energy Resources Limited and Responsible Lithium Partnership.
The company is actively developing all-solid-state batteries and is investing in collaborations with various battery technology firms.
VW
VW's "Way to ZERO" initiative aims for complete carbon neutrality by 2050, with a focus on reducing CO2 emissions per vehicle produced. They plan to transition to in-house battery production with their next-generation platform, SSP. The company has introduced the "Unified Cell" battery and plans to launch several BEV models in the coming years.
VW has established PowerCo SE for battery technology development and production, with a substantial investment plan. They are also collaborating with Umicore N.V. for key battery materials.
Stellantis
Stellantis is rapidly increasing its commitment to electric vehicles. Their initial strategy aimed for 70% BEV and PHEV sales in Europe and 40% in the U.S., but they've now set more ambitious targets. They plan to invest significantly to increase battery production capacity, transitioning to nickel-cobalt-free batteries.
Stellantis is partnering with various battery manufacturers, including Lyten, Inc., and Factorial Energy Inc., to develop next-generation batteries. They've secured contracts for lithium material supply with Vulcan Energy Resources Limited and Controlled Thermal Resources Limited.
Renault
Renault is striving for a complete shift to BEVs in Europe by 2030. They're focusing on five key business areas, including EVs and software, high-end zero-emission vehicles, mobility services, materials, and battery recycling, and low-carbon ICE vehicles and HEVs.
Renault is actively investing in battery technology, collaborating with Ampere for all-solid-state battery development and securing lithium supply from Vulcan Energy Resources of Australia.
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