#Wanhua Chemical #Germany #LFP Battery #IBU-tec #Weimar

Wanhua Chemical and IBU-tec Jointly Develop LFP Battery Materials

In a significant advancement for the European battery industry, Wanhua Chemical Group Battery Technology Co., Ltd and IBU-tec have announced a joint development agreement aimed at creating a localized supply chain for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery materials. This partnership, formalized during a signing ceremony in Weimar, Germany, signifies a strategic collaboration between two companies committed to enhancing the battery production landscape in Europe.

Background of the Collaboration

The agreement was signed on March 26, 2025, bringing together Wanhua Chemical, a leading global player in chemical materials, and IBU-tec, a notable European manufacturer in lithium iron phosphate materials. As the demand for sustainable energy solutions rises, LFP batteries are emerging as a cornerstone in the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors due to their safety and longevity. Dr. Hua Weiqi, Executive Vice President of Wanhua Chemical, emphasized the potential of LFP technology, noting its dominant share in the Chinese EV market and its viability as a solution for energy storage needs in Europe.

Joint Development Goals

Under the terms of this partnership, the two companies plan to scale up production over the coming months. They expect to deliver reliable results by the third quarter of this year to ascertain if their joint developments can meet market needs in both Europe and North America. If successful, this collaboration could significantly enhance production capabilities of LFP cathode materials in Germany, aligning with the overarching goal of establishing a comprehensive European value chain within the battery sector. Mr. Wang Xiaoxing, General Manager of Wanhua Battery Industry Company Limited, highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership in presenting a localized supply of LFP materials to European customers.

Future Plans for Research and Development

Both companies are also considering the setup of a joint laboratory focused on battery innovation and research and development. This initiative is designed to provide robust local support tailored for the European battery market. With Wanhua Chemical's extensive experience and existing technology platforms in battery material development and IBU-tec's established R&D and production systems in Germany, the collaboration is poised to address pressing industry needs efficiently.

Wanhua Chemical's Global Footprint

Wanhua Chemical is recognized as a prominent global entity in new materials, holding the 16th position on the CEN's Global Top 50 chemical companies list with a workforce exceeding 30,000 employees. The company diversifies its operations across various sectors, including polyurethanes, petrochemicals, performance chemicals, and emerging materials, catering to industries such as automotive, electronics, and green energy. Wanhua's commitment to globalization is evident, with seven R&D centers strategically placed across the globe, including locations in Beijing, Shanghai, Hungary, and Spain.

Conclusion

As the collaboration progresses, both Wanhua Chemical and IBU-tec are optimistic about the prospects for enhancing the LFP battery market in Europe. By joining forces, these two industry leaders aim to not only elevate production capacities but also drive innovation within the sector, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable battery landscape that addresses both local and international demands.