Sodium-ion batteries are gaining momentum in the battery industry, driven by their sustainable and rare earth-free materials. Clarios, a global leader in advanced low-voltage battery solutions, has taken significant steps to accelerate Sodium-ion Battery innovation. Combining partnerships and serial production plans, Clarios aims to reshape sustainable mobility and deliver innovative solutions for OEM customers.
Clarios Expands Sodium-ion Battery Partnerships
On January 7, 2026, at CES in Las Vegas, Clarios announced an expanded collaboration with Swedish battery innovator Altris. Under a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) focused on the Power Sodium platform, Clarios is set to deepen its equity investment in Altris. This strategic partnership aims to boost product development and secure a resilient European supply chain for sodium-ion technology. By aligning technically and commercially, both companies are paving the way for industrial-scale production.
Collaboration with InoBat for Prototype Development
Clarios has also teamed up with Slovak battery manufacturer InoBat alongside Altris to assemble prototype sodium-ion test cells. These test cells, created at InoBat’s pilot facility in Slovakia, are based on advanced sodium-ion technology developed by Altris. The prototypes undergo performance validation in Clarios’ R&D labs in Hannover, ensuring compliance with OEM standards. Key features include strong cold-start capabilities at temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F), low internal resistance, and high power density. These attributes are essential for reliable winter operations and efficient energy delivery in modern vehicles.
Serial Production Slated for the End of the Decade
Clarios has ambitious plans to initiate serial production of low-voltage sodium-ion batteries by the end of the decade. This production will occur at a dedicated facility either in Europe or the U.S., equipped for scalable manufacturing. The localized production supports OEM sustainability goals, regulatory requirements, and decreases reliance on non-European raw materials. By prioritizing Western markets, Clarios ensures supply chain resilience, mitigates global sourcing risks, and enhances long-term sustainability.
The Strategic Importance of Sodium-Ion Technology
With abundant and rare earth-free raw materials, sodium-ion batteries offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional Lithium-ion chemistries. By focusing on circularity and localized supply chains, Clarios is aligning its innovation strategies with global automotive needs. Federico Morales-Zimmermann, Vice President and General Manager at Clarios, stated, “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.”
Christer Bergquist, Altris CEO, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Our deepened partnership with Clarios marks an important milestone for sodium-ion technology. By combining expertise, we’re accelerating product development and preparing for industrial-scale production.”
Sodium-Ion Technology for Sustainability
Clarios’ strategic initiative is centered around building secure supply chains and delivering sustainable solutions to the automotive sector. InoBat’s facility, commissioned in 2024, plays a pivotal role in this vision. Equipped with R&D labs, quality testing facilities, and a pilot production line capable of manufacturing 50,000 cells annually, the site serves as a crucial enabler for future serial production.
As sodium-ion technology continues to evolve, Clarios emphasizes its commitment to supporting OEMs with reliable and sustainable battery solutions. With partnerships, localized production, and innovation-driven strategies, Clarios cements its leadership in advancing Sodium-ion Battery technology globally.
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