Chinese group Wanhua Chemical Battery Technology Co., Ltd. has signed a memorandum of understanding with European company ElevenEs, specialised in the production of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The agreement was formalised in Meishan, Sichuan Province, by Wanhua Chemical’s General Manager, Wang Xiaoxing, and ElevenEs’ Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Nemanja Mikać.
Targeting industrial localisation in Europe
The cooperation aims to establish a local supply chain for battery materials, including LFP cathodes, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binders and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) solvents. Wanhua Chemical will use its global industrial infrastructure to support ElevenEs’ production in Serbia. This initiative aligns with industry efforts to mitigate risks associated with remote supply chains.
Strengthening research and development capacities
The agreement also includes the creation of a joint team to exchange technical and commercial information. This collaboration seeks to accelerate new product development and optimise their market deployment in Europe. Wanhua Chemical has developed an integrated technical platform covering cathode and anode materials, as well as binders and solvents, based on several decades of applied research and industrialisation.
Expansion into EV and energy storage markets
Beyond raw materials, the two companies plan to extend their collaboration into electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS). This strategy would allow both partners to leverage technological complementarities in fast-growing sectors, while consolidating their position in the European market.
Industrial and logistical outlook
According to Wang Xiaoxing, the alliance supports Wanhua Chemical’s strategy to localise its industrial operations in Europe. Nemanja Mikać stated that the agreement contributes to ElevenEs’ supply chain security while supporting its innovation efforts. The two companies aim to jointly develop competitive products backed by a shared and regionalised value chain.
