Patrick de Metz

Batteries are at the heart of the low-carbon industrial revolution – 40% of the value of an electric vehicle is linked to its battery. To date, there is almost no battery production of significance in Europe. In response, the European Commission has launched a Battery Alliance for Europe. Will it work? Opinions are divided. Some fear that Europe may repeat the mistake of solar panels, an industry that grew on public support but has now vanished as a result of global competition. Others, including the European Commission, claim that the Battery Alliance will be the new Airbus, kicking-off a European industrial renaissance.