CALB, one of China's major battery makers, and German specialty chemicals company Henkel have opened a joint innovation center at CALB's Changzhou base in Jiangsu province. The two companies also signed a strategic cooperation memorandum of understanding at the opening ceremony on September 29, according to Gasgoo.
From supplier to partner
The innovation center marks an upgrade in the partnership between the two firms. Previously, CALB and Henkel collaborated mainly on a supply-demand basis. With the new center, their relationship extends to joint research and development, replacing project-based interactions with a long-term, institutionalized framework.
The center will integrate CALB's expertise in power battery manufacturing with Henkel's advanced materials capabilities, aiming to accelerate the transition of frontier technologies from research to scalable products. The goal is to develop solutions for global customers and markets.
Focus on next-generation battery tech
Under the plan, the two companies will jointly tackle next-generation battery technologies, speeding up technological breakthroughs and industrial application. Leveraging Henkel's global technology network and CALB's industrial capabilities, the collaboration is expected to benefit not only the Chinese market but also the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, supporting global energy transition and carbon neutrality goals.
The opening ceremony took place at CALB's Changzhou facility, which serves as a key production site for the battery maker. CALB is among China's top battery suppliers, competing with CATL and BYD in the rapidly growing electric-vehicle battery market.
Henkel, known for its adhesives and sealants, has been expanding its presence in the EV supply chain, providing materials for battery packs and other components. The joint center is part of broader efforts by both companies to strengthen their positions in the new energy sector.
