BASF Named Iveco Group's Primary Recycling Partner for Electric Vehicle Batteries

Iveco Group has taken a significant step towards realizing its circular economy strategy, aligning with the principles of the 4R Framework – Repair, Refurbish, Repurpose, and Recycling. This strategic approach aims to extend the lifespan of batteries used in their electric vehicles while concurrently reducing their overall environmental impact. As part of its commitment, Iveco Group will adhere to the Extended Producer Responsibility policy, holding itself accountable for the entire life cycle of the products it introduces to the market, from design to end-of-life.

In a pioneering move, Iveco Group has selected BASF, the world's largest chemical supplier for the automotive industry, as its initial partner to implement a recycling solution for the lithium-ion batteries powering the Group's electric vans, buses, and trucks. This decision is in line with Iveco's goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, showcasing a dedicated effort to contribute positively to environmental sustainability.

BASF, having recently inaugurated Europe's premier co-located center for battery material production and recycling in Schwarzheide, Germany, will orchestrate and oversee the entire recycling process for Iveco Group's lithium-ion batteries. This comprehensive agreement covers key aspects such as battery collection, packaging, transportation, and recycling operations across several European countries, including prominent markets like France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

After the collection phase, BASF will utilize mechanical procedures to convert the batteries into a substance referred to as a black mass. This innovative method allows for the extraction and recovery of critical raw materials, such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium. These reclaimed materials will then be repurposed in the production of new batteries, thereby establishing a complete battery recycling value chain within Europe. This localized approach aims to provide recycled metals to the battery industry with a significantly reduced carbon footprint, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.

Iveco Group's emphasis on lifecycle thinking aligns seamlessly with BASF's commitment to sustainability. The collaboration leverages BASF's expansive battery collection network and recycling capabilities in Europe to create a closed loop from end-of-life batteries to the manufacturing of new ones. This partnership is pivotal in enabling a circular economy, minimizing the carbon dioxide footprint, and contributing to Iveco Group's ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

This collaboration marks BASF's inaugural agreement to recycle batteries from electric vans, buses, and trucks, representing a strategic move into the commercial vehicle sector. The partnership not only strengthens BASF's European collection network but also positions the company to make significant strides in this burgeoning market. With a focus on recycling solutions, BASF aims to facilitate the closure of the loop and assist the European market in meeting the stringent circular economy requirements outlined in the EU Battery Regulation. As both companies embark on this pioneering venture, they signal a shared commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship in the automotive industry.