BASF and CATL ink a cooperation deal for producing cathode active substances for batteries
In a groundbreaking move for the global battery market, BASF Battery Materials and CATL have signed a framework agreement in July 2025, aiming to jointly develop and supply advanced cathode active materials (CAM) for lithium-ion batteries. This collaboration is poised to significantly impact the industry.
The partnership will leverage BASF's global production network, supporting CATL's expanding international battery manufacturing operations and enhancing supply chain resilience. This strategic alliance is designed to enable vertical integration within the battery supply chain, improving efficiency from materials development through production to delivery.
CATL's global growth will be bolstered with localized cathode material supply via BASF's diversified production footprint across multiple continents. This move will improve logistics and responsiveness to regional demand, ensuring a steady supply of innovative battery materials.
The collaboration will also drive technological innovation through joint research and development on next-generation cathode materials. The focus is on higher performance and sustainability, including breakthroughs in battery recycling. This partnership could potentially accelerate the availability of advanced batteries, particularly for electromobility applications.
By connecting advanced research capabilities with streamlined production and supply processes, the partnership aims to enhance market delivery. This collaboration is part of BASF Battery Materials' commitment to the global battery industry and a testament to the growing collaboration in the sector.
Although no specific terms of the agreement have been disclosed, the news comes as a significant development in the battery industry. The partnership is expected to contribute to the advancement of battery technology, shaping the future competitiveness of the market.
In conclusion, the partnership between BASF and CATL aims to strengthen the global battery supply chain, raise performance standards for cathode materials, and support the scaling of sustainable energy storage solutions worldwide. This collaboration is a step towards a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable future for the battery market.
Data-and-cloud-computing technologies will likely play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and coordination processes between BASF Battery Materials and CATL as they jointly develop and supply advanced cathode active materials. This collaboration will harness the power of digital tools to streamline production, monitor supply chain resilience, and accelerate the development of next-generation cathode materials.
The integration of advanced technology is essential in driving technological innovation, enabling the partnership to achieve its goals of higher performance, sustainability, and breakthroughs in battery recycling. This marriage of traditional manufacturing processes with cutting-edge technology is expected to propel the partnership to the forefront of the evolving battery market.
