Brand Unveils Game-Changing Battery Technology

Polestar has launched a battery recycling programme for selected Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 vehicles. Some replacement batteries will contain at least 50 percent recycled cobalt.

Refurbishment and partner network

The initiative uses refurbished battery units rather than new replacements. Polestar will install these units through Volvo battery centres.

Refurbished batteries in qualifying Polestar 2 and 3 models will feature a minimum of 50 percent recycled cobalt.

Why cobalt remains central

Cobalt is a core component of many lithium-ion chemistries. Polestar uses Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) batteries across its lineup.

• NMC batteries rely on cobalt for energy density and performance.
• Some makers prefer lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry to reduce cobalt use.

Supply-chain concerns and impacts

Most mined cobalt comes from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The DRC holds roughly half of the world’s known reserves.

Mining in the region has raised safety and legality concerns. Extraction can release dust and chemical byproducts that cause contamination.

Policy pressure and industry trends

Polestar said it aims to cut reliance on virgin materials and extend battery life. The company framed this as both an environmental and customer benefit.

The European Union has introduced tough battery rules. Those rules include a 90 percent cobalt reduction target by 2027 and 95 percent by decade’s end.

Other manufacturer efforts

In Australia, Nissan is reusing some first-generation Leaf NMC batteries to power part of a manufacturing plant. BMW runs a similar i3 battery recycling programme there.

Coverage of developments such as Brand Unveils Game-Changing Battery Technology reflects rapid change in automotive batteries. Filmogaz.com will monitor further updates as manufacturers scale recycling and refurbishment programmes.