January 9, 2026: Clarios has revealed plans to launch serial production of low-voltage sodium ion batteries before the end of the decade, after announcing an extended partnership with Swedish battery tech developer Altris.
Clarios said on January 7 serial production would be at a dedicated European or US facility equipped for scalable manufacturing, although the lead and lithium battery giant did not give details.
The US-based company said it has now “deepened” its investment in Altris, to speed-up battery development, but did not disclose financial details.
The partners are also working with Slovak manufacturer InoBat to prepare for assembly of initial sodium ion test cells for automotive applications. Prototype batteries at InoBat’s facility in Slovakia will be based on test cells produced at InoBat’s pilot plant, using Altris’ advanced sodium ion technology.
Clarios claimed these cells demonstrate strong cold-start capability down to -25°C (-13 °F) low internal resistance, and high power density – features that ensure reliable winter operation and efficient energy delivery for modern vehicles.
All performance validation and testing is being conducted at Clarios’ R&D laboratories in Hanover to ensure compliance with OEM requirements.
Cooperation with Altris was launched in 2024, when Clarios said the aim was to develop a sodium ion battery with a potential of up to 60V to support automotive applications in new vehicles and for aftermarket replacements that can also complement a multi-battery low-voltage system configuration.
The partners are working to a joint development agreement focused on what they describe as a power sodium platform.
Validation and testing are conducted in Clarios’ R&D laboratories in Hannover to ensure compliance with OEM requirements.
By planning for localized production in Europe and keeping the option for US capacity, Clarios said it is building a resilient supply chain anchored in Western markets to mitigate global sourcing risks and ensure long-term sustainability.
InoBat’s facility was commissioned in 2024. The site includes R&D labs, quality testing, and a pilot line capable of producing up to 50,000 cells annually. It is running customer qualification programs and serves as a key enabler for future serial production.
“Launching serial production of sodium-ion batteries is a key step in our mission to deliver innovative, chemistry-agnostic energy solutions for the automotive industry,” said Federico Morales-Zimmermann, VP and GM for global OEM customers and technology at Clarios.
