Vedanta Nico, a branch of Vedanta Ltd, announced that it has agreed with US company AEsir Technologies for the provision of nickel, an essential element for advanced batteries. Nickel is crucial in EV battery technology, especially in the cathode, where it boosts energy density, power output, and battery longevity. Batteries high in nickel content, like nickel-zinc types, provide quick charging, decrease dependence on cobalt, and enhance the overall value proposition of electric vehicles (EVs).
The increasing use of electric vehicles is expected to cause the global need for nickel in batteries to increase from 150,000 tonnes in 2020 to 500,000 tonnes by 2025.
The IEA predicts a significant increase in the number of electric vehicles, from 10 million in 2020 to 145 million in 2030, driven by improvements in battery capacity, faster charging, and decreased use of cobalt.
"Vedanta Nico, India's primary nickel producer, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AEsir Technologies, Inc, a US-based innovator in advanced battery technologies," Vedanta Nico said in a statement.
Vedanta Nico has partnered to advance and market innovative nickel-zinc batteries for vital infrastructure, 5G telecommunications, and electric vehicle charging, they announced.
"We are thrilled to partner with AEsir Technologies to create a game-changing battery solution for the critical infrastructure, 5G telecom, and EV market. 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," Vedanta Nico COO Prashuk Jain said.