Once seen as a fringe effort, battery recycling is now stepping into the spotlight and becoming a cornerstone of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. In the United States and around the world, the automotive industry is undergoing a major shift—not only toward cleaner transportation but also toward smarter use of the resources that make it possible.
As EVs continue to rise in popularity, the demand for critical battery materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt is growing rapidly. To manage costs, stabilize supply chains, and reduce environmental impact, automakers and suppliers are rethinking the battery lifecycle and accelerating investments in recycling.
Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, EVs face a challenge when their batteries degrade. But what was once considered waste is now seen as a resource. Industry leaders are partnering with recycling specialists to recover valuable minerals from used batteries, easing reliance on volatile global mining markets and helping keep materials in circulation.
Companies like Redwood Materials and Li-Cycle are expanding domestic recycling operations, enabling recovery rates of more than 90 percent. At the same time, batteries that are no longer suitable for vehicles are finding second lives in grid storage systems and lowpower applications.
This momentum is being driven by more than just innovation. Across North America and Europe, governments are tightening regulations and encouraging sustainable practices. Automakers are responding by adopting closed-loop systems that improve traceability and reduce dependence on newly mined resources.
Consumers also stand to gain. As manufacturers find new ways to recycle and reuse materials, the cost of EVs is expected to come down. And with every battery that gets a second chance, the industry moves closer to a truly circular model—one where end-of-life batteries help power the road ahead.
In this edition, we feature insights from Aaron Shaffer, Director of Marketing Services, Standard Motor Products [NYSE: SMP], and Blake Ritter, Branded Products Segment Manager, Lincoln Industries. Together, they explore how supply chain resilience and sustainability are redefining competitive advantage in automotive manufacturing.
