Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Yann Vincent, CEO of Automotive Cells Company (ACC) to explore the strategic vision and challenges of strengthening Europe's battery independence through sustainable manufacturing, regulatory navigation, and future expansion plans. ACC is a European battery manufacturer backed by Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, and TotalEnergies. They build gigafactories to power Europe’s clean mobility shift and to strengthen the continent’s battery independence and industrial resilience.What we cover in this episode: Yann Vincent's personal insights on leadership and his transition from automotive to battery manufacturingACC's origin story and its vision for Europe's battery independenceBattery cell costs, local supply chains, chemistry choices, and EU regulationsThe impact of electric vehicle (EV) demand on expansion plans and ACC's financing strategiesACC's sustainability efforts, potential moves beyond automotive into energy storage and next-generation battery technologiesThe importance of local supply chains and partnerships with European battery material suppliersChallenges of competing with Chinese manufacturers, the need for European sovereignty in battery production, and the role of government support and regulations Chapters:00:00 Introduction to ACC and the European Battery Landscape02:58 Yann Vincent's Background and the Formation of ACC05:26 Current Status and Future Plans of ACC08:08 Yann's Personal Motivations for Transitioning from Automotive to Battery Cell Production14:02 Challenges in Battery Cell Costs and Competition with China16:49 The Importance of European Battery Supply Chains for the European Car Industry18:11 How Europe Can Catch Up with China in Battery Cell Manufacturing23:50 Tariffs vs. Subsidies as Regulatory Support27:24 Competitive Advantages and Disadvantages of a Fully European Battery Material Supply Chain30:06 Navigating Battery Chemistry and Market Trends35:09 Balancing Manufacturing with R&D36:37 Is Regulation a Competitive Advantage or a Burden? Sustainability in Battery Production38:48 How the European Financing Ecosystem is Responding to the Battery Industry46:09 Market Demand Dynamics and Future Expansion Plans50:18 Thoughts on Expansion Approach52:52 Similarities and Differences Between Battery Manufacturing and Car Manufacturing54:32 Future Outlook for ACC and the Battery Market
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In conversation with Vikram Handa Founder, Managing Director - Epsilon Advanced Materials
In this episode of the Battery Insiders podcast, Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Mr Vikram Handa, Founder and Managing director of Epsilon Advanced Materials, about the critical role of synthetic graphite in battery supply chains. They discuss the innovative production processes, the differences between synthetic and natural graphite, and the cost dynamics affecting the industry. Vikram Handa shares insights on localization strategies, current projects in the US and Finland, and the importance of partnerships for validation in battery materials. The conversation also touches on ESG considerations and the recent acquisition of LFP technology, highlighting the future direction of Epsilon in the battery materials landscape.
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In conversation with Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo SE
In this exclusive battery insiders podcast conversation, Simon Engelke interviews Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo SE, discussing his journey in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, the evolution of battery technology, and the strategic direction of PowerCo. Blome shares insights on the challenges and innovations in battery production, including the development of solid-state batteries and cost management strategies. He emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable battery ecosystem in Europe and the future of stationary batteries. The conversation concludes with Blome's thoughts on managing global operations and the future outlook for PowerCo.-------------------------------------------------------------------About us: Battery Associates was founded in 2020 to unite battery enthusiasts globally and bring about sustainable energy solutions. B.A leverages the power of individuals to accelerate sustainable battery development and increase access to energy-efficient and sustainable batteries.Website: https://www.battery.associates
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Multilevel Inverters: A Key Innovation for Battery Integration?
In this episode of the Battery Insiders Podcast, Dr. Simon Engelke interviews Niclas Lehnert, co-founder of Pulsetrain, to discuss the innovative technology of multi-level inverters and their potential impact on the electric vehicle industry. They explore the workings of multi-level inverters, the challenges faced in their adoption, the role of AI in extending battery life, and the importance of data in understanding battery performance. The conversation also touches on market entry strategies, weight reduction benefits, and fire safety improvements associated with this technology.
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Advancing Renewable Integration with Innovative Battery Technologies
In this episode of the Battery Insiders Podcast, Dr Simon Engelke speaks with Lord Adair Turner, Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission, about the transformative role of battery technology in achieving net-zero emissions. They discuss the rapid decline in battery costs, the importance of long-duration storage solutions, the challenges and opportunities in electric vehicle integration, regulatory hurdles, investment landscapes, and the global perspectives on energy transition. The conversation highlights the unstoppable momentum towards a sustainable energy future driven by innovation and collaboration.
Battery Insiders is a podcast produced by Battery Associates that covers the topic of batteries and how they can contribute to a sustainable world. The podcast features a diverse range of experts and is hosted by Bhavya Jha, Mariam Awara, and Dr. Simon Engelke. The episodes feature live recordings from Clubhouse, session reflections, and in-person video podcast recordings.
France