“Recycling is the starting point for new products“

The electrification of the commercial vehicle sector is a very recent development only now getting going. When will battery recycling really take off?

NICOLE ROSTOCK: This is hard to predict, because there is simply a lack of empirical data on how long the batteries will remain in the vehicles. However, I’m currently in the process of establishing a network of recyclers for our service outlets. In concrete terms, I am travelling with my Scania colleague to visit our current recycling service providers for all Germany and Europe at present to learn how the processes are actually implemented in real life and to see for myself how these companies work.

Could you give a rough time estimate?

NICOLE ROSTOCK: With the Lion’s City E, MAN has been mass producing an electric city bus since 2020, while mass production of the eTruck is due for 2024. As a result, we are estimating a significant quantity of high-voltage batteries for recycling in perhaps 10 to 15 years. That’s when the current batteries will have been through their first and second lives and will have to be recycled.

Battery recycling is one of the most recent MAN projects. How long have you been working on it?

NICOLE ROSTOCK: In concrete terms, since the beginning of 2022. However, I wouldn’t describe it as a “project”, for battery recycling will certainly be a firm and long-term part of the process chain. By the way – we’re also working closely with colleagues from Scania and VW to exchange experiences and identify synergies. That’s very important, because things can change very quickly in this industry and in the legislation as well. Moreover, it is a new subject for all. On top of that, MAN is already part of the Volkswagen Group recycling network.