Clarios, a global leader in low-voltage energy storage based in Wisconsin, has unveiled a $6 billion plan aimed at expanding U.S. manufacturing and driving American innovation. The initiative seeks to bolster American energy and critical mineral independence by strengthening the nation's battery supply chain, a crucial component for nearly every vehicle in the United States.
The ambitious plan involves expanding existing operations, constructing new facilities, fostering innovation, and creating American jobs. This investment is bolstered by recent executive orders and federal advanced manufacturing tax credits.
Clarios' starter batteries are a vital part of the U.S. transportation infrastructure, powering everything from cars and semi-trucks to military vehicles and boats. The company supplies batteries to over half of all cars and trucks in the U.S. and operates 16 manufacturing facilities across 32 states, employing more than 5,500 workers.
"Now more than ever, America must protect its critical minerals and invest in technology essential to energy independence," said Mark Wallace, CEO of Clarios. "With our comprehensive strategy, Clarios is driving a major step forward for America's economic security, national security, and personal security of the American people."
Clarios' strategy through 2035 focuses on four main pillars:
Advanced Battery Production ($2.5 billion): Scaling the production of advanced Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries and other innovative energy storage technologies to reduce reliance on imports and generate new American jobs.
Critical Minerals Processing and Recovery ($1.9 billion): Enhancing the circular battery economy by recycling nearly 100% of materials from used batteries, retaining valuable critical minerals such as antimony and tin within the U.S.
Next Generation Technologies ($1 billion): Developing advanced energy storage solutions for AI and data centres, supercapacitors, and investing in emerging technologies like sodium-ion batteries to create a competitive edge for the U.S.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing ($600 million): Upgrading Clarios' facilities with cutting-edge production capabilities to maintain the U.S.'s global leadership in starter battery manufacturing.
In 2024, Clarios increased the production of advanced low-antimony batteries in the U.S. by 1.5 million units. This year, the company invested in its Oconee, South Carolina facility to boost battery component manufacturing capacity by 30 million parts. By 2026, Clarios plans to produce its latest battery technology in Toledo, Ohio, with an expected output of 745,000 advanced low-antimony starter batteries annually for American-made vehicles.
Clarios is a global leader in low-voltage battery technologies, providing advanced solutions that power nearly every type of vehicle on the road. The company employs approximately 18,000 people in over 100 countries and is part of the Brookfield portfolio. Clarios is committed to sustainability, recycling 8,000 batteries an hour through its network and advocating best-in-class sustainability practices across the industry.
From breaking news to forward-thinking industry trends, our subscriber section keeps you informed, engaged, and ahead of the competition.
