Clarios Acquires Ecobat Battery Recycling Plants in Strategic European Expansion
Clarios, a global leader in advanced battery technologies, has agreed to acquire Ecobat’s battery recycling operations in Germany and Austria. The deal includes three key facilities—Freiberg and Braubach in Germany and Arnoldstein in Austria. According to Ecobat, the sale supports its strategic focus on lithium-ion battery recycling and global operations.
The transaction is expected to close by early 2026, pending regulatory approval. Ecobat’s CEO, Tom Slabe, emphasized that this move follows earlier divestitures in France, Italy, and battery distribution. These asset sales are part of a broader realignment toward core competencies and high-growth sectors such as lithium-ion recovery.
Meanwhile, Clarios sees the acquisition as a significant step in reinforcing its closed-loop battery recycling network. The company aims to expand its circular economy capabilities, leveraging Ecobat’s proven lead and polypropylene (PP) processing expertise to enhance material recovery across the EMEA region.
Boosting Circular Economy and Automotive Battery Supply Chains
This acquisition strengthens Clarios’ supply chain resilience and recycling infrastructure in Europe. The company claims it already recycles 8,000 batteries per hour, and the new facilities will enhance capacity and support its VARTA brand’s material sourcing. By expanding its footprint, Clarios aims to meet increasing demand for advanced low-voltage batteries and support Europe’s automotive energy transition.
According to Clarios EMEA President Werner Benade, the added sites bring advanced recycling technologies and a skilled workforce. These assets position Clarios to deliver high-quality secondary materials essential to sustainable battery manufacturing. The move aligns with the growing emphasis on ESG targets and EU regulations mandating higher recycling efficiency and circularity.
As global vehicle electrification accelerates, securing reliable recycled inputs becomes a competitive advantage. This deal not only strengthens Clarios’ operational base but also reflects a broader trend of industry consolidation in battery recycling.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
The Clarios-Ecobat deal marks a pivotal moment in Europe’s battery recycling landscape. As lithium-ion and lead-acid battery demand continues to surge, strategic recycling infrastructure becomes mission-critical. Clarios’ acquisition underscores how major players are positioning themselves ahead of tightening regulatory mandates and surging EV-driven demand. For Ecobat, the divestment allows sharper focus on lithium-ion processing—a segment with vast growth potential. This transaction showcases the shifting balance of power within the global battery value chain.
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