Amazon Aims to Extend Battery Lifespan
In collaboration with the start-up Circu Li-ion, Amazon is working to extend the service life of batteries used in logistics operations.
Through an automated process, batteries are dismantled, and individual cells are assessed to determine whether they can be reused or recycled. By improving the reuse of batteries from electric vehicles, Amazon aims to reduce the need for new batteries and lower its associated carbon footprint. Circu Li-ion is supported by Amazon’s Sustainability Accelerator program, which provides financial backing and expertise to promote more sustainable start-ups.
The pilot phase, set to begin after September 2024, will see Circu Li-ion expand its technology in Germany. Over six months, Circu Li-ion and Amazon will process batteries from Amazon’s electric vehicle fleet, using Circu Li-ion’s advanced technology. The goal is to implement more precise recycling techniques, leading to greater waste reduction and battery reuse. This collaboration is intended to serve as a model for other companies looking to electrify their logistics operations.
Support from the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator
“Our participation in the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is driven by our goal to revolutionize the battery industry and recycle three billion batteries by 2040,” said Antoine Welter, CEO and co-founder of Circu Li-ion.
Since its launch in 2022, the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator has supported more than 40 start-ups across the UK and Europe, providing over €1 million in grants and loans. These companies have, on average, increased their revenue by 700%, collectively raising over €18.7 million to date.
Through this grant program, Circu Li-ion has gained valuable insights into how global companies are implementing sustainability initiatives. “This forward-thinking program demonstrates Amazon’s commitment to supporting innovation and driving positive change,” said Justine Mahler, Amazon’s Sustainability Director. “By testing unique and innovative technologies in real-world conditions, we are not only reducing our environmental impact but also creating a blueprint for more sustainable practices across the industry.”
About Circu Li-ion
Circu Li-ion is a European battery upcycling company with a mission to maximize the value of every battery and protect the planet. Founded in 2021, they aim to revolutionize the battery value chain by automating and scaling battery disassembly and cell diagnostics, making battery recycling more efficient and environmentally friendly. Their technology supports key players in electric vehicles, micromobility, power tools, energy storage systems, and recycling. With their Machine-as-a-Service solution, Circu Li-ion offers the chance to upcycle used batteries, extending their life and reducing costs while benefiting the environment. The company currently operates in Karlsruhe, Germany, and Foetz, Luxembourg.
