Franco-Italian automaker Stellantis and French nuclear fuels firm Orano have announced the cancellation of their planned joint venture aimed at recycling electric car batteries, as confirmed by both companies on Wednesday.
The two firms had previously signed a memorandum of understanding last year, with the intention of developing a facility to recycle used electric vehicle batteries and scrap materials sourced from Stellantis gigafactories in Europe and North America. Production was anticipated to commence in early 2026.
In a joint statement, Stellantis and Orano noted, “Stellantis and Orano will not finalize the intended joint venture for recycling end-of-life electric vehicle batteries and scrap,” while also indicating that they are exploring alternative commercial relationships.
The joint venture was expected to provide Stellantis, which encompasses brands like Peugeot, Fiat, and Jeep, with enhanced access to critical materials such as cobalt, nickel, and lithium.
These materials are essential for advancing electrification efforts and supporting the broader energy transition.
