BMW is taking a big step towards a more sustainable future by partnering with Redwood Materials to recycle lithium-ion battery packs from its electrified vehicles. This move is part of BMW’s broader strategy to create a closed-loop supply chain for its EVs, starting with its sixth-generation powertrain that will debut in the Neue Klasse, according to ARSTechnica.

A New Partnership for Sustainability

Redwood Materials, founded by former Tesla CTO JB Straubel, has been making waves in the battery recycling industry. The company has already partnered with major automakers like Ford, Volvo, Volkswagen, and General Motors. Now, BMW of North America is joining the ranks, aiming to improve the environmental footprint of lithium-ion batteries and increase the adoption of electric vehicles.

“Our partnership with BMW of North America ensures responsible end-of-life battery management that will improve the environmental footprint of lithium-ion batteries, help decrease cost and, in turn, increase access and adoption of electric vehicles,” said Cal Lankton, chief commercial officer at Redwood Materials.

How the Partnership Works

BMW’s network of dealerships, distribution centers, and service centers will send end-of-life battery packs to Redwood Materials. These packs will either go to Redwood’s campus in Reno, Nevada, or a second campus in Charleston, South Carolina, near BMW’s factory in Spartanburg and its upcoming battery factory in Woodruff.

At Redwood, the nickel, cobalt, copper, lithium, and other minerals from these battery packs will be recycled using a hydrometallurgy facility. This process ensures that valuable materials are reused, reducing the need for new mining and lowering the overall environmental impact.

The Neue Klasse and Beyond

The Neue Klasse, BMW’s upcoming line of EVs, promises plenty of innovations, including a more circular approach to car manufacturing. These new EVs will be built in facilities like BMW’s factory in San Luis Potosí, Mexique, and are scheduled to hit the market in 2027.

By partnering with Redwood Materials, BMW is not only ensuring that its batteries are responsibly managed at the end of their life but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in the EV industry.

EVXL’s Take

BMW’s collaboration with Redwood Materials marks a significant milestone in the journey toward a sustainable EV ecosystem. This partnership aligns with the growing trend of battery recycling initiatives that we’ve been closely following. As we recently reported, BMW is committed to a “circular” battery manufacturing process, which includes using recycled materials for lithium, cobalt, and nickel, and powering production with green energy.

The importance of such partnerships cannot be overstated, especially considering the recent improvements in EV technologie des batteries. Our analysis shows that BMW’s Gen6 platform signals a strategic shift aimed at halving the cost of battery packs to rival the price of internal combustion engine vehicles. This move, coupled with the recycling initiative, demonstrates BMW’s commitment to not only lead in battery technology but also in environmental stewardship.

What do you think about BMW’s move towards battery recycling? Leave your thoughts on this article in the comments section below.