In addition to an optimal recycling process, the extension of the working life plays a central role in our group battery strategy. In principle, the batteries should be repaired or reconditioned in the first instance or be converted into second-life projects for complete reuse,” says Tobias Enge, a group strategist in the business field of e-mobility and infrastructure. “Further processing in alternative environments – for example into mass-storage devices – is being researched as part of use cases and developed for practical applications.” Essentially this means that used vehicle batteries are bundled together to form a much larger battery, which in turn help to power both Volkswagen plants and co-operative projects with suppliers and cities.

By replacing certain components found inside, some used batteries can be used in electric cars again. Parts taken from used batteries can also go into storage and used again later.

Sooner or later, the time comes for a battery to be recycled. This is done carefully and safely in co-operation with a number of recycling partners. “The batteries are dismantled, crushed and reprocessed. Here, raw materials such as nickel (²⁸Ni), copper (²⁹Cu) and cobalt (²⁷Co) are recovered in large quantities and can then, for example, be reused in the production of new battery cells.” Tobias Enge explained. This all ensures that we keep waste to a minimum while manufacturing our batteries.

As soon as there are enough reusable batteries and electric vehicles, these strategies will be rolled out across all of the Volkswagen Group.