On December 2, 2025, in Zaragoza, Spain, a super factory jointly invested by a Chinese battery giant and a global automotive group officially broke ground. This is not only the foundation of a factory, but also an important footnote to Europe's energy transformation and the evolution of the global industrial landscape. As the competition for new energy vehicles extends from products to the core of the supply chain, a global competition about battery technology, production capacity, and localized layout has quietly escalated.

The total investment reaches 4.1 billion euros! 50GWh Super Factory in Spain

Contemporary Star Energy, a joint venture formed by Stellantis Group and CATL with equal equity, has recently launched the construction of its battery super factory in Zaragoza, Spain. The total investment of this project is up to 4.1 billion euros, with a planned annual production capacity of 50 GWh, and is scheduled to be put into operation by the end of 2026. The factory is positioned to provide battery solutions for Stellantis' B-class, C-Class electric passenger vehicles, crossover vehicles, and SUVs in the European market, while simultaneously meeting CATL's promotion needs for advanced battery technology in the European market. At the groundbreaking ceremony, the partner sealed a time capsule that will not be opened until 2045, symbolizing the project's long-term commitment to the future and firm vision for sustainable development.

Technology driven carbon neutrality

The factory is highly forward thinking in its technological path, committed to building a leading carbon neutral battery production base in Europe. Its core highlight lies in the innovative "Cell to Body" design, which can directly integrate battery cells into the vehicle structure, thereby improving the efficiency and safety performance of vehicle space utilization. At the same time, the factory will implement a "dual chemical system" strategy and produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries and ternary lithium (NMC) batteries in parallel to meet the different market demands for high safety, long life, high energy density, and long endurance. In addition, the factory promises that over 80% of its operational energy will come from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, and fully implements the Industry 4.0 intelligent manufacturing standard, achieving efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly production through full process digitization and real-time monitoring.

Deepen localization and global cooperation

The landing of this super factory has profound strategic significance. Firstly, it will greatly strengthen the domestic battery supply chain in Europe, enhance its independent supply capacity, reduce dependence on external imports, and provide stable and reliable battery guarantees for Stellantis' electrification transformation in Europe. Secondly, the project is expected to directly create over 4000 job opportunities and indirectly drive thousands of related jobs, effectively promoting the overall economic development of the Zaragoza region and even Spain. Through cooperation with local universities and research institutions, the project will also cultivate a new generation of talents in the new energy industry for Europe. Keywords: latest news on batteries, latest reports on batteries

As stated by Zeng Yuqun, Chairman of CATL, this joint venture aims to take our partnership to new heights, combining CATL's technology with Stellantis' localization experience to jointly promote the popularization of zero carbon technology and sustainable industrial development. The construction of this factory is not only the establishment of a production capacity landmark, but also a model of deep collaboration in the global new energy vehicle industry in terms of technology integration, capital cooperation, and market expansion. Editor/Yang Beihua