July 24, 2025: European Commission competition chiefs are reviewing proposals by France’s Manitou and China’s Hangcha groups to build a lithium ion battery factory in northern France.

The joint venture partners said on July 17 the project would be a collaborative effort with local authorities and Solutions & Co, the economic development agency of Région Pays de la Loire.

However, the joint venture agreement will only come into force after the review and approval of competition authorities.

Proposed production capacity details were not disclosed, but Manitou said the plant aims to encourage customers to swap lead acid-enabled vehicles for lithium.

Manitou launched a new range of forklifts at the end of last year. The battery project would support the group’s plans to expand its electric vehicle range and ensure the share of electric sales reached nearly 30% by 2030.

Michel Denis, president and CEO of Manitou, said Hangcha’s industrial vehicle and battery manufacturing expertise would significantly increase Manitou’s plans.