BMW The group does a decisive step towards a circular economy with an investment of ten million euros for construction Competence center for cell processing (CRCC) in Kirchroth, Lower Bavaria. The centre, which is scheduled to be operational in the second half of 2025, will implement a technology called “direct recycling”.
This new 2,200 square meter plant represents a significant innovation for the German brand in the field of battery recycling. Unlike traditional methods, a process developed by BMW avoids energy-intensive chemical and thermal treatments.allowing the direct extraction of precious materials such as lithium, cobalt, graphite, manganese, nickel and copper, which immediately reintroduced into the production cycle.
“We create a closed loop for the battery cells.“, explains Markus FahlböhmerSenior Vice President, Battery Products, BMW AG. “The advantage of being located in Bavaria is the short distances between our competence centers.“. CRCC integrates with existing centers in Munich (BCCC) and Parsdorf (CMCC), creating a triangle for battery development, production and processing.
Management of the center will be transferred to Encory GmbH, a joint venture 50% owned by the BMW Group and the Interzero Group, which will employ approximately 20 people. The system was developed with strong emphasis on sustainable development: energy from discharged batteries will be recovered in internal storage systems, while photovoltaic panels on the roof will help meet the energy needs of the structure.
The new center will be able process tens of tons of material per yearrepresenting a fundamental part of BMW’s circular economy strategy. The group’s approach is based on principles of Re:Think, Re:Duce, Re:Use and Re:Cyclewith the aim of maximizing material recovery and minimizing the environmental impact of automotive production.
This project confirms BMW’s commitment to turning the battery recycling challenge into an opportunity for sustainable innovation, while delivering significant economic, corporate and environmental benefits.
Source: HD Motori
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