Honda strikes deal to secure recycled lithium-ion batteries for its electric cars

Japanese automaker Honda says it is partnering with US battery recycling specialist Ascend Elements to secure a steady supply of recycled lithium-ion batteries for its electric cars that it builds in the US.

The two companies have been partnered since 2021 but the new agreement is billed as an important step forward in creating a closed-loop supply chain for recycled battery materials – including lithium, nickel, and cobalt.

Honda says that using Ascend Elements’ patented “Hydro-to-Cathode” direct precursor synthesis technology,  it is able to produce new cathode active materials (CAM) from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods.

“Honda is aiming for ‘zero environmental impact’ by 2050 and sourcing recycled battery materials for its electric vehicles is a huge part of that,” said Mike O’Kronley, CEO of Ascend Elements.

“We’re honored to continue our strategic relationship with Honda in North America.”