Vedanta Nico Partners with AEsir Technologies for Nickel Supply in Advanced Batteries
Vedanta Nico, a subsidiary of Vedanta Ltd, announced on Monday that it has entered into a partnership with US-based AEsir Technologies to supply nickel, a critical component for next-generation batteries.
Nickel is essential for electric vehicle (EV) battery technology, particularly in the cathode, enhancing energy density, power output, and battery lifespan. Nickel-rich batteries, such as nickel-zinc variants, offer fast charging, reduce reliance on cobalt, and improve the overall value proposition of EVs.
The global demand for nickel in batteries is expected to rise significantly, from 150,000 tonnes in 2020 to 500,000 tonnes by 2025, driven by the expanding EV market. The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that the number of electric cars will grow from over 10 million in 2020 to 145 million by 2030, supported by advancements in battery capacity, faster charging, and reduced cobalt use.
Vedanta Nico, recognized as India's primary nickel producer, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AEsir Technologies, an innovator in advanced battery technologies. This partnership aims to develop and commercialize nickel-zinc batteries for critical infrastructure, 5G telecom, and EV chargers.
"We are thrilled to partner with AEsir Technologies to create a game-changing battery solution for the critical infrastructure, 5G telecom, and EV market," said Prashuk Jain, COO of Vedanta Nico. "Our expertise in nickel production, coupled with AEsir's innovative zinc battery technology, positions us to deliver a product that meets the evolving needs of the industry. This collaboration aligns with our vision of contributing to a sustainable future through responsible mining and value-added products."
This partnership is set to leverage Vedanta Nico's production capabilities and AEsir's technological innovations to meet the growing demand for advanced battery solutions, contributing to the future of sustainable energy.