Altilium was pleased to welcome BBC News to its new ACT2 facility in Plymouth last week, for an exclusive look at the company’s plans to build a sustainable domestic supply chain for critical battery materials in the UK. 

On a tour of the 18,000 square foot facility, the first of its kind in the UK, BBC Business and Defence reporter Scott Bingham got to see first-hand how Altilium’s scientists and engineers are recovering critical minerals, including lithium and nickel, from old EV batteries, which can then be used in the production of new batteries.  

“In old EV batteries and production scrap from gigafactories, we have that strategic asset already in the UK,” Altilium COO Dr Christian Marston told the BBC. “Companies like Altilium can take those waste streams, recover the critical materials and put them back in to build new batteries, to electrify everything, to allow us to get to net zero.” 

By building a circular economy for EV battery materials, Altilium is ensuring that these valuable resources remain in the UK, while reducing reliance on mining and cutting carbon emissions – making EVs even cleaner. 

According to a new report commissioned by the Department for the Business and Trade, a secure supply of these critical minerals is vital for the UK’s economic growth and security, industrial strategy and clean energy transition. 

Altilium is aiming to supply 50% of the lithium and nickel needed for EV manufacturing in the UK from recycling by 2040. 

With ambitious plans to grow the business over the coming months, Altilium is also creating new green gobs for the region and actively engaging with schools, colleges and universities in Plymouth to foster STEM opportunities for early stage careers. 

Watch the full news report here to see how Altilium is delivering “Critical Minerals, Made in Britain”: