Mercedes-Benz Energy Collaborates with Indian Start-Up Lohum to Recycle EV Batteries
Lohum Cleantech, a lithium-ion battery recycler, has signed a deal with Mercedes-Benz Energy (MBE) to offtake at least 50MWh of MBE's second-use battery modules each year.
The Indian start-up is MBE's first Asian partner to repurpose such modules. MBE and Lohum have been working together for two years, and the new deal allows Lohum to access large quantities of MBE's used battery modules.
"Lohum repurposes battery applications primarily for the Indian stationary and non-auto mobility storage markets. Lohum is thinking about 2nd life in a very different way than most companies. Lohum is developing expertise and application across multiple module variants to create a long-term supply funnel,” said Gordon Gassman, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Energy.
Lohum had said before that it wanted to grow internationally and invest in the US and EU so that it could serve the global EV ecosystem.
Because the raw materials required to manufacture lithium-ion batteries are not generally available, the recycling chain holds a lot of importance in the EV ecosystem, in addition to the world's trend towards more sustainable energy.
Justin Lemmon, co-founder of Lohum, said, “Mercedes-Benz Energy’s model for approaching second life is the most advanced we have seen by far. In addition to their willingness to regularly test new opportunities for collaboration, they are creating infrastructure and capabilities to maximise sustainability and value for used inventory.”
He added, “Second life remains very nascent, and Mercedes-Benz Energy’s creativity, process, and commitment to safety has helped us expand our business significantly.”
Source: Outlook
