ElringKlinger and Chengfei Integration Technology conclude framework agreement on joint venture for battery technology

The framework agreement stipulates the establishment of a joint venture entity for the development, production, and distribution of lithium-ion battery modules for the global automotive market. In this context, the focus is on international e-mobility projects in Asia, Europe, and the United States.

The joint venture brings together complementary operations of the two parties to the contract: while CITC is responsible, via its subsidiary China Aviation Lithium Battery Co., Ltd. (CALB), for the electrochemical constituents of the cell, ElringKlinger will be contributing the remaining components of the module, such as highly innovative cell contact systems and cell housings. Furthermore, ElringKlinger will oversee the areas of battery module design and production. In addition to gaining mutual access to resources, the two joint venture partners will benefit from each other’s expertise and the many years of experience amassed by both companies in various sub-disciplines of battery technology. The aim of this collaborative approach in the field of battery technology is to evolve business activities in pursuit of a sustained improvement in market penetration.

Dr. Stefan Wolf, CEO of ElringKlinger AG, commented as follows: “The joint venture framework agreement provides a classic win-win constellation for the two partners. CITC now has at its side a global automotive supplier with expertise in industrialization and sales, while ElringKlinger will in future be working with one of the leading cell producers.” “This is another important step forward with regard to our strategic positioning in the area of sustainable mobility,” he added.

ElringKlinger has been active in the field of battery technology since as early as 2009 and commenced serial production of various components and cell contact systems for lithium-ion batteries several years ago. Additionally, ElringKlinger develops and manufactures complete battery modules and systems as well as aggregate energy storage units.

CITC is a subsidiary of the state-owned enterprise Aviation Industry Corporation of China. Among other shareholdings, CITC has a stake in CALB, which produces batteries and power supply systems for various applications. As a certified manufacturer of lithium-ion cells and energy storage systems, CALB will contribute the electrochemical constituents of the battery cell to the joint venture.