- Europe’s quest to reduce its reliance on lithium-ion batteries produced in other countries is progressing, with data from New AutoMotive showing that 30 individual battery gigafactories are now live across Europe.
- Combined, the 30 sites have a total potential annual production capacity of over 300GWh – enough to supply batteries for an estimated 3.75 million electric passenger cars (assuming each car has an 80kWh battery pack).
- The European Union in particular has been pushing for the region to become self-sufficient in battery supply, helping to create a circular EV economy.
European battery industry continues to grow
As highlighted by New AutoMotive’s European Battery Tracker, 30 battery gigafactories are now in operation across Europe. Last month, the Gigafactory Envision AESC in Douai, France has commenced operations, following €48m of EU state aid granted to the site earlier this year. With an initial annual production capacity of 9GWh, this particular site will help satisfy battery demand for EVs built at Renault’s strategically close Douai car plant.
Notable gigafactories set to come online soon include a plant in Sines, Portugal, operated by the China Aviation Lithium Battery Group, with construction on the site starting this year. Elsewhere, construction of the Tata Group-owned Agratas EV battery gigafactory in the UK is well underway, being on track for a 2026 opening.
Through the European Union’s Net-Zero Industry Act, the union has set a target for 90% of battery demand, primarily coming from electric vehicles, to be met by domestically-produced batteries by 2030. With more European EV battery gigafactories in the pipeline, it remains to be seen whether this ambitious target can be achieved. New AutoMotive predicts that the total GWh capacity of European gigafactories, including those outside the EU, will reach around 435GWh by 2030, a 45% rise over current capacity levels.
Ben Nelmes, CEO of New AutoMotive, commented:
“The speed at which Europe’s battery supply chain is developing is truly remarkable. From new gigafactories coming online to critical mining and recycling projects breaking ground, we are seeing the tangible results of concerted effort and smart policy. This isn’t just about building batteries; it’s about securing Europe’s industrial future, creating green jobs, and accelerating our transition away from fossil fuels. The momentum is undeniable, and it’s a clear signal that the continent is serious about leading the electric revolution.”
