DHL Supply Chain has signed a long-term agreement with Fortum Battery Recycling to provide dedicated service logistics for the collection, transport, and processing of electric vehicle (EV) batteries across Europe, the companies announced this week.
The collaboration seeks to streamline end-of-life battery management while promoting circular economy practices in the rapidly growing electric mobility sector. DHL will manage safe logistics, including storage, handling, and just-in-time delivery of used EV batteries to Fortum’s recycling facilities. The operations are structured to comply with strict European regulatory standards for battery safety and environmental protection.
“We believe that electrification of Europe is not possible without sustainable recycling of batteries taking place in Europe, for Europe,” said Anssi Airas, Head of Business Line Battery at Fortum. “The cooperation with DHL is an essential building block for our mission to promote the circular economy and maximise resource conservation.”
Fortum currently offers one of the few fully integrated battery recycling solutions in Europe, using both hydrometallurgical and mechanical processes to extract lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other critical materials. These recovered components are reused in battery manufacturing, supporting a closed-loop supply chain. The Finnish company recently launched its Battery Box service in Germany and Finland, making it easier for customers to return used lithium-ion EV batteries for safe and compliant recycling.
DHL brings to the partnership its expertise in EV logistics and its expanding global network of EV service centres. “Our collaboration with Fortum underscores our commitment to providing innovative logistics solutions to meet the growing demands of e-mobility,” said Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain EMEA. “Through our expertise in service logistics and our global network, we can help Fortum expand their recycling capabilities while maintaining the highest safety and sustainability standards.”
Earlier this year, DHL expanded its EV Centre of Excellence in Rugby, UK, in partnership with Cox Automotive. The site now includes battery testing, repair, recycling services, and a £800,000 Battery Energy Storage System. This centre is part of DHL’s wider EV infrastructure footprint, which includes similar facilities in China, Italy, Indonesia, Mexico, UAE, and the United States.