Northvolt will advance lithium metal battery technology from Northvolt Labs.
Future research and development of next-generation technologies will be led by world-class capabilities and engineering talent concentrated in Västerås, Sweden.
Northvolt announced today its decision to transfer the development of its next-generation lithium metal battery technology from California to its research and development hub, Northvolt Labs, in Västerås, Sweden. The relocation reflects a strategic move to consolidate research, development and industrialization of Northvolt's cell product portfolio featuring lithium-ion, sodium-ion and lithium metal in one location, ensuring future technology developments will benefit from a platform of expertise and capabilities unmatched in the Western world.
At Northvolt Labs, the development of lithium metal battery technology will be supported by access to a world-class team of materials engineers, cell designers and manufacturing experts, working in conjunction with cathode active materials and cell manufacturing capabilities, as well as global supply chain development resources. Importantly, the move also brings lithium metal into Northvolt's customer-facing business units, providing experience in introducing new technologies into the company's production systems.
Following an in-depth evaluation of the technology and its market application, conducted by Cuberg's leadership team in close collaboration with Northvolt, it was determined that Northvolt Labs' support and infrastructure would maximize the opportunity for success while also providing the most cost-effective pathway for the industrialization of lithium metal technology.
Historically, Northvolt has operated in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, developing lithium metal battery technology through wholly owned subsidiary Cuberg, which it acquired in 2021. Cuberg employees are encouraged to apply for open positions that fit their skillsets across Northvolt, including Northvolt Labs and Northvolt Ett (Northvolt North America) in Montreal, Canada, a region that benefits from expertise in advanced battery technologies.
Shauna McIntyre, CEO of Cuberg, commented:
Northvolt Labs is a world-class battery research and development campus that not only provides a natural habitat for lithium metal but also provides an excellent platform to ensure the further development of lithium metal technology.
“This move strengthens Northvolt's long-term commitment to advanced battery development and better positions the company to engage with industry pioneers on a technology with great potential.”
Sami Haikala, Chief Development Officer at Northvolt, commented:
Northvolt Labs brings together lithium-ion, sodium-ion and lithium metal technologies under one roof, creating a unique environment for cross-innovation and accelerated development.
“By consolidating our efforts, we will be better able to deliver next-generation energy solutions to meet the growing demands of global markets.”
Shauna McIntyre will continue to play a leadership role within Northvolt North America, working to expand Northvolt's presence in the region and supporting the commercialization of Northvolt's long-term technology roadmap and strategic positions.
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Northvolt will advance lithium metal battery technology at Northvolt Labs. Source