Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt has announced that it will relocate the development of its next-generation lithium-metal battery technology from California to its research and development hub in Västerås, Sweden.
The decision aims to consolidate both the research and development, as well as the industrialization of Northvolt's battery cell portfolio, into a single location. This strategic move is expected to maximize opportunities for success and yield cost efficiencies.
Sami Haikala, the Chief Development Officer of Northvolt, stated, "Integrating lithium-ion and lithium-metal in one facility fosters a distinctive atmosphere for cross-innovation and swift development."
Northvolt has been advancing lithium-metal battery technology through its subsidiary Cuberg, which is based in California and was acquired in 2021. As a result of this transition, Cuberg will cease operations, leading to employee layoffs
In a social media update, Richard Wang, the founder and former CEO of Cuberg, shared, "Northvolt has officially confirmed the closure of all Cuberg's functions, centralizing its R&D initiatives in Sweden." He also noted that approximately 200 highly skilled engineers and managers in the battery sector are now seeking new opportunities
Northvolt has encouraged affected employees to consider applying for available roles within other divisions of the company, including its research, development, and manufacturing sectors in both Sweden and Canada
