Dutch consortium starts Battery Competence Center

Dutch companies, knowledge institutes and industry associations join forces in a new innovation program called Battery Competence Center (BCC). By collaborating, the parties want to build up knowledge and competences in the field of battery technology and strengthen the competitive position of the Dutch manufacturing industry. The consortium consists of the leading companies DAF Trucks, VDL Groep and Damen Shipyards, startup Eleo Technologies, knowledge institutes TNO Traffic & Transport and Eindhoven University of Technology, economic development agency Brainport Development and industry associations RAI Automotive Industry NL and Netherlands Maritime Technology.

The BCC will focus on the development of battery packs for buses, trucks and ships. The participants combine their knowledge to improve the development and production of battery packs in such a way that the vehicle or vessel becomes better and more competitive. The parties will be also working together on increasing the purchasing power of the companies. This makes the Netherlands less dependent on foreign suppliers. The BCC wants the battery packs to be assembled locally.

Another goal is to for the Netherlands to take a prominent position in the European battery chain. Noting the presence of relevant competencies in complex manufacturing equipment, thin-film technology and plasma chemistry, a favorable logistics location and a strong automotive and maritime industry, the BCC feels the Netherlands has plenty of opportunities to capitalize on.