Why EV batteries are different
A traction battery from an electric or plug-in hybrid car is a high-voltage lithium-ion pack weighing anywhere from 100 kg to over 600 kg. It can hold a dangerous charge long after the vehicle is scrapped, and damaged cells carry a risk of thermal runaway. That means it cannot be treated like a lead-acid battery: it must be assessed, packaged in UN-approved containment, moved under ADR dangerous goods rules by trained drivers, and sent to a facility with the right permits for lithium chemistry.
What we handle
- Complete traction packs from BEVs, PHEVs and full hybrids
- Individual modules and cells from workshops and remanufacturers
- NiMH packs from older hybrids
- Damaged, defective and recalled packs, including fire-affected units
- E-bike, e-scooter and light EV batteries in quantity
- Prototype, test and end-of-line packs from manufacturers
The process
We’ll ask for the vehicle make and model (or the pack specification), its condition and state of charge if known, and how it’s currently stored. Intact packs are collected in suitable crates; damaged packs go in UN-approved DDR containers with vermiculite or equivalent fill. The carrier supplies the dangerous goods paperwork alongside the hazardous waste consignment note. Downstream, packs are discharged, dismantled and processed to recover cobalt, nickel, lithium, copper and aluminium.