The massive influx of electric vehicle batteries reaching the end of their lifespan has brought the focus to how to manage them safely and efficiently. With increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the expectation that millions of lithium-ion batteries will be retired in Europe in the coming years , battery recycling is no longer just an option but an essential link in the chain.
In this context, two key movements have emerged: on the one hand, a logistical offensive aimed at streamlining the collection, transport, and processing of this equipment; on the other, scientific advances that promise to reduce costs and simplify recycling processes . Added to this is the ongoing debate on industrial policy in Spain, where there are calls for increased investment in high value-added activities such as recycling. These recycling processes are being monitored internationally due to their environmental and economic implications.
Reverse logistics for end-of-life batteries
CEVA Logistics has launched a comprehensive reverse logistics solution covering the transport, storage, and processing of electric vehicle batteries at the end of their lifecycle. The goal is to meet the needs of manufacturers and waste management companies by complying with safety and regulatory requirements and promoting reuse and recycling within a circular value chain . This proposal is complemented by technological solutions and specific applications for the reuse and recycling of modules and cells.
The company anticipates a phased rollout with a multi-million euro investment and dedicated centers in a dozen European countries. According to its plan, the solution will initially be implemented in France, the United Kingdom, and Spain, before expanding to Germany, Italy, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic between 2026 and the end of 2027. In total, the project envisions up to 15 specialized logistics centers , reflecting the growing interest in batteries in the Spanish market.
This network leverages the operator's experience in the automotive sector and existing infrastructure. Each center is located in designated areas within vehicle logistics platforms and integrates dedicated storage zones and secure, temperature-controlled containerized containment units, equipped with humidity monitoring equipment and 24/7 alarm systems, enabling the safe management of used batteries.
The operational workflow encompasses battery collection from dealerships, used car dealerships, and ELV (end-of-life vehicle) centers; technical diagnosis to determine whether dismantling or reconditioning is appropriate; and subsequent shipment to recyclers or second-life facilities after controlled temporary storage. The use of ADR transport and real-time traceability protocols ensures end-to-end control and transparency.
Three axes of the offer
The service revolves around three operational pillars , designed to scale across Europe and meet the most demanding safety and quality standards.
- Pan-European collection and transport: the ability to collect batteries continentally and deliver them to authorized plants after processing.
- Value-added services: diagnostics, deep discharge, dismantling, regeneration, and reconditioning to maximize value recovery.
- Traceability and data: Real-time tracking of each unit and document management to ensure regulatory compliance and full visibility.
The company frames this initiative within the advancement of electric vehicles and the challenges posed by their after-sales service. According to its management, the sector needs robust solutions that strengthen the circular economy , leveraging proven logistical capabilities. This industrial push aligns with the technological and industrial progress of the sector.
European network and phased deployment
Before launch, CEVA tested the concept at its FVL center in Ghislenghien, Belgium, which allowed them to validate processes and size the network. This pilot phase has been key to fine-tuning operations in real-world environments: from assessing the condition of the modules to classifying them for reuse or recycling.
The centers incorporate shelving and designated areas for containing incidents, as well as thermal and humidity control equipment and security protocols that are critical for preventing operational risks and responding quickly to incidents. Experience in risk management and security protocols is a cornerstone of operations.
With its launch in France, the UK, and Spain, and expansion to seven other European countries between 2026 and 2027, the operator aims to position itself as a leader in battery return logistics . The stated goal is to consolidate a network of up to 15 centers to serve manufacturers and the aftermarket in multiple markets.
Scientific innovation that can facilitate recycling
Alongside these logistical advances, an MIT team has described a new electrolyte material for solid-state batteries based on aramid amphiphiles that self-assemble in water and combine with polyethylene glycol segments. This system would form nanoribbons capable of conducting lithium ions and, most importantly, could be broken down with organic solvents under mild conditions , opening the door to less aggressive recycling processes than those currently used. These developments represent a significant innovation in batteries with recyclable potential.
Proof-of-concept tests show that the material withstands typical manufacturing and usage stresses, although performance limitations remain, especially during rapid charging and discharging. The researchers propose using it as part of the electrolyte (one or two layers) to facilitate recycling while maintaining the other conventional components. If validated at scale, this approach would help recover lithium and other materials at a lower cost and with reduced toxicity.
Designing batteries with recyclability in mind from the outset breaks with the inertia of solely optimizing performance. While still far from industry standards, its potential aligns with the need to safely and efficiently manage the volume of end-of-life batteries that the European market expects in the coming years.
Spain faces the challenge: investment and recycling value chain
In terms of public policy, research by the VALOR group at the University of Vigo, with support from the Ministry of Science, proposes redirecting aid towards higher value-added activities within the electric vehicle battery supply chain, with an emphasis on recycling and key components . The study points to a strong dependence on foreign suppliers and limited decision-making capacity in Spain. It also raises concerns about lithium imports and their impact on the supply chain.
According to this analysis, instruments such as PERTE VEC have failed to attract investment in critical mineral extraction or battery recycling facilities in the country. It recommends prioritizing projects by domestic companies, providing targeted aid by sector, and promoting public-private R&D partnerships , accelerators, and investment platforms that specialize in fund management.
If this shift materializes, it would reduce dependence on external sources for strategic supplies, increase Spain's influence in decision-making, and generate skilled employment. This would be especially relevant given the sustained growth of the electric vehicle fleet and the resulting increase in batteries destined for reuse or recycling.
A sector in motion
Other operators are also preparing for the increased flow of end-of-life batteries. Companies like DHL have opened specialized electric mobility centers in Europe and other markets, a sign that the aftermarket supply chain is reorganizing to absorb the increased transport, sorting, and processing of batteries required by the transition to electrification. These developments align with the new challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
With scalable infrastructure, scientific advances aimed at simplifying materials recovery, and an open debate on how to attract investment in high-value activities, electric vehicle battery recycling is consolidating its position as a key component of the automotive circular economy. The combination of secure logistics networks, traceability, and more recyclable technologies points to more efficient and transparent management, aligned with EU environmental and regulatory objectives.
