Alexander Battery Technologies, a UK-based manufacturer of lithium battery packs and chargers, said it is looking to move part of its battery manufacturing to central Europe, most likely Slovakia.
A company spokesperson said most of its customers are in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and so a move closer to them would significantly reduce lead time and lower shipping costs. That would lower customer prices.
She said: “Areas identified are Romania, Poland, Hungary, or our main preference will be Slovakia.” A board decision will be sought in 2023. An investment in automation and heavy lifting equipment will allow higher volume manufacture of electric vehicle (EV) battery packs.
The company also manufactures custom battery packs based on lithium-ion, LiFePO4, lithium-Polymer and other chemistries at its factory in Peterlee, England. It also designs and manufactures chargers to complement the battery packs it supplies. Its factory is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016 certified.
Earlier this year, the company announced an expansion of its UK manufacturing to meet European customer demand for shorter supply chains that are less prone to pandemic-driven shutdowns or shipping and trading arrangements.
The new 60,000 square-foot technology centre at the company’s Peterlee headquarters will extend its ability to design and produce high-voltage and high-power lithium battery packs. It is on track to begin operation in the first half of 2023. It will serve customers in the industrial, medical and automotive markets.
Production capacity will support demand for low-volume EVs such as specialist commercial, public transport, service and military vehicles, it said. The company is also expanding its welding capabilities to include laser and wire-bonding technologies.