Description

In our latest episode, we spoke with Nikki Rimmington, a strategy expert from battery cell start-up Volklec, about UK gigafactory developments.

With experience at Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin, Nikki shared insights into the UK's electrification journey. We discussed challenges and opportunities in battery production, localised supply chains, and how start-ups like Volklec compete in this industry.

What is Volklec?

Volklec is a UK start-up aiming to become the country's only independent battery cell manufacturer. While larger projects like Agratas and AESC target high-volume production, Volklec focuses on specialised markets beyond automotive.

Who Does Volklec Serve?

Volklec caters to niche markets that struggle to attract large-scale suppliers:

• High-performance, low-volume automotive
• Aerospace (drone batteries)
• Defence (land and aerospace vehicles)
• Off-highway vehicles
• Rail, marine, medical technology, and robotics

A "Start Small, Think Big" Approach

Volklec builds capabilities and customer relationships gradually, learning from challenges faced by other European battery projects. This reduces risks associated with large-scale ventures.

Key Partnerships

Partnerships are central to Volklec's strategy:

• UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC): Volklec uses UKBIC's Coventry facility to produce cells without upfront factory capital.
• Far East Battery (FEB): Partnering with this Chinese battery company provides proven technology and reduces customer risk.

Gigafactory Challenges

Location Factors

• Skilled Workforce: Proximity to manufacturing hubs like the Midlands provides advantages
• Energy Infrastructure: Gigafactories require robust power and renewable energy plans
• Community Engagement: Poor local relations can cause delays, as seen with Tesla's Berlin factory

Operational Hurdles

• Investment: Securing funding requires clear plans and proven demand
• Product Focus: Factories must align with specific chemistries and formats
• Valley of Death: Bridging the gap between ideas and market-ready products

The Battery Ecosystem

Recycling Challenges

EU regulations require increased recycled content, but batteries are lasting longer than expected, creating supply shortfalls for recycling. Innovations like replacing individual cells instead of entire modules could extend lifespans further.

Government Support

The UK government supports batteries through investment zones and funding bodies like the Advanced Propulsion Centre. However, demand remains the biggest barrier—the UK's smaller market needs critical mass to drive investment and strengthen supply chains.

Looking to 2030

For the UK battery sector to thrive, Nikki envisions:

• Stronger demand across industries
• Renewed investor confidence
• Robust ecosystem from raw materials to recycling

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