volkswagen is stepping up its activities in North America to stay ahead of its competitors in the race for leadership in the electrified market. The Group and its subsidiary PowerCo, which specializes in the production of lithium batteries, have chosen Canada for the first Volkswagen gigafactory outside the European Union. Here, from 2027, the production of Standardized cells for Volkswagen electric car batteries.

BATTERY PRODUCTION IN THE USA: THE EFFECT OF INCENTIVES

The decision to expand PowerCo cell production from Europe to Canada, explains a press release from the group, is a new step in the ambitious growth strategy in North America. It should also be remembered that the American policy has been much more effective in terms of incentives for companies than Europe. “Our North American strategy is a key priority in our 10-point plan that we unveiled last year”he stated Olivier BlumeCEO of the Volkswagen Group. “With cell manufacturing decisions in Canada and a site in South Carolina, we are accelerating the execution of our strategy in North America”.

LITHIUM BATTERY PRODUCTION: US SHOULD BEAT CHINA

Thomas SchmallMember of the Management Board for Technology of Volkswagen AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of PowerCo SE added: “PowerCo is becoming a global battery manufacturer. With the expansion into North America, we will enter a key market for electric mobility and battery cell manufacturing, advancing our global battery strategy at full speed. Canada and Ontario are perfect partners to grow our battery business and our jobs in the green economy because we share the same values ​​of sustainability, responsibility and cooperation. We are committed to being a reliable partner and good neighbor to the people of St. Thomas and Ontario.. In the image below, the recovery project e recycling of used lithium battery cells in Germany.

PRODUCTION OF VOLKSWAGEN LITHIUM BATTERIES IN CANADA SINCE 2027

Volkswagen’s announcement is pompous because it follows a chorus of recent announcements that see placements of projects aimed primarily at obtaining credit recognized by the government for manufacturers of low-emission technologies. “Volkswagen’s announcement is a true testament to our highly skilled workforce and Canada’s strong and growing battery ecosystem.“, expressed the Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry Francois Philippe Champagne. “VW’s decision to establish its first overseas gigafactory in Canada is a testament to our country’s competitiveness when it comes to attracting major investment. Along with Volkswagen and PowerCo, our government looks forward to working together for a cleaner, more sustainable and resilient economy. ».