Honda Motor Co and Princeton NuEnergy have formalised their ongoing collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding aimed at advancing next‑generation lithium‑ion battery recycling technologies.
This agreement reinforces both companies’ intention to support a circular supply chain for battery materials while contributing to greater energy independence in the United States.
The two organisations have been working together since 2022 on technical validation of Princeton NuEnergy’s plasma‑based direct battery recycling and upcycling processes. These methods target both manufacturing scrap and end‑of‑life lithium‑ion batteries. As part of this joint effort, PNE has produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material with performance levels comparable to newly manufactured material, aligning with Honda’s long‑term ambitions for electrification and resource circularity.
The new battery recycling MOU sets out a framework for a strategic partnership centred on further validation projects and the potential development of commercial‑scale applications. It also reflects the alignment between Honda’s global electrification plans and PNE’s goal of expanding cost‑efficient production of battery‑grade cathode materials within a closed‑loop system.
Dr Chao Yan, co‑founder and CEO of Princeton NuEnergy, said, “Our work with Honda shows strong technical alignment and a clear pathway for advancing circular battery materials. This MOU reflects a shared commitment to accelerating the next phase of sustainable, high-performance material production, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration.”
A spokesperson for Honda added, “Honda values the progress achieved through our collaboration with PNE and recognises the importance of advanced recycling technologies in building a more sustainable materials ecosystem.”
