Battery Insiders

Hosted by Battery Associates

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162

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Conversations with the people building the battery industry. Hosted by Dr. Simon Engelke, founder of Battery Associates and the BatteryMBA. Cell manufacturing, energy storage, EVs, raw materials, recycling, and the policy behind them. Simon speaks with founders, engineers and executives about what they are building and what they would do differently. Past guests include Frank Blome (PowerCo), Matt Shen (CATL), Siyu Huang (Factorial) and Yann Vincent (ACC). Produced by Battery Associates, the team behind the BatteryMBA: battery.mba Guest and sponsor enquiries: batteryinsiders.com

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August 3, 202618 min

In conversation with Siyu Huang, Founder and CEO at Factorial Energy

Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Siyu Huang, Founder and CEO at Factorial Energy to explore Factorial’s journey and its role in advancing solid-state batteries. They discuss milestones achieved, realistic timelines for SSB commercialization, key technical challenges, and where the biggest opportunities lie. Factorial Energy is a US based battery technology company developing advanced solid-state batteries with higher energy density, improved safety, and cost-competitive performance compared to conventional lithium-ion cells. What we cover in this episode: Siyu Huang’s journey from chemistry research to founding Factorial and her insights on leadership in scaling a battery startup. Factorial’s milestones in developing solid-state batteries, including first 100 Ah cells, high energy density, and commercial deployments with automotive partners.Key technical challenges, realistic timelines for solid-state commercialization, and specialty applications beyond automotive, such as drones and defense. The importance of asset-light, consistent manufacturing, leveraging existing lithium-ion infrastructure, and licensing/technology partnerships.Insights on navigating growth, investor relations, and building strategic collaborations in the Western battery ecosystem. About Battery Associates:Founded in 2020, Battery Associates (B.A.) unites battery professionals worldwide to accelerate sustainable energy solutions. We empower individuals and organizations to develop and deploy efficient, sustainable battery technology for a cleaner future. 🌐 Website: 🎓Become a Battery Expert with BatteryMBA: 12-week online program covering the battery industryLive and recorded sessions with industry expertsTechnical and business topics across the battery value chainNetwork with battery professionals globallyScholarships available Learn more: #FactorialEnergy #BatteryTech #SolidStateBatteries #BatteryInnovation #ElectricVehicles #SupplyChain #SustainableEnergy #BatteryInsiders #SyntheticGraphite #BatteryMaterials #BatterySupplyChain #EVBattery #BatteryInnovation #CleanTech #EnergyStorage #BatteryMBA #BatteryAssociates #ESG #Localization #Manufacturing #GreenMobility #EnergyIndependence #EuropeanManufacturing #BatteryLeadership #NextGenBatteries

July 24, 202630 min

In conversation with Matt Shen, General Manager of CATL

Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Matt Shen, General Manager of CATL to explore CATL’s European strategy - from its approach to market entry, joint-venture models, and regulatory readiness to the challenges of execution across supply chains and talent. CATL is the world’s leading manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy-storage systems. They power global automakers and advances clean-energy innovation through sustained investment in technology, sustainability, and large-scale manufacturing. WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE• CATL’s strategic approach to Europe - “In Europe for Europe” local production model - Operations in Germany and Hungary - Joint ventures to stay close to customers and meet local EV demand • Building European operations - Focus on people and talent development - Training local workforce - Transferring manufacturing know-how • Execution challenges & supply chain realities - Logistics and regulatory hurdles - Talent scarcity - Collaboration with local suppliers and institutions • European regulatory landscape - Regulations as both challenge and opportunity - Battery passport and evolving standards - Need for consistent policy support • Technology & innovation outlook - Development of solid-state batteries - Product customization for European conditions - Cold-temperature performance and range optimization • Integration into the European battery ecosystem - Partnerships with automotive companies - Collaboration with governments and research bodies - Flexible plant ownership and service models • Leadership insights & reflections - Cross-cultural management - Fast pace of battery innovation - Importance of customer understanding - Long-term commitment to Europe About Battery Associates: Founded in 2020, Battery Associates (B.A.) unites battery professionals worldwide to accelerate sustainable energy solutions. We empower individuals and organizations to develop and deploy efficient, sustainable battery technology for a cleaner future.🌐 Website: battery.associates BECOME A BATTERY EXPERT WITH BATTERYMBA• 12-week comprehensive online program - In-depth coverage of the global battery industry • Live and recorded sessions - Learn directly from experienced industry experts • Technical & business curriculum - Topics spanning the entire battery value chain • Global networking opportunities - Connect with battery professionals worldwide • Scholarships available - Accessible learning opportunities for eligible participants Learn more: battery.mba #CATL #BatteryIndustry #EVBatteries #BatteryInsiders #ElectricVehicles #BatteryTech #EuropeBatteryEcosystem #BatteryTech #SolidStateBatteries #BatteryChemistry #InnovationInBatteries #SupplyChain #SustainableEnergy #BatteryInsiders #SyntheticGraphite #BatteryMaterials #BatterySupplyChain #EVBattery #BatteryInnovation #CleanTech #EnergyStorage #BatteryMBA #BatteryAssociates #ESG #Localization #Manufacturing #GreenMobility #EnergyIndependence #EuropeanManufacturing

September 24, 202558 min

In conversation with Yann Vincent, CEO of ACC

Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Yann Vincent, CEO of Automotive Cells Company (ACC) to explore the strategic vision and challenges of strengthening Europe's battery independence through sustainable manufacturing, regulatory navigation, and future expansion plans. ACC is a European battery manufacturer backed by Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, and TotalEnergies. They build gigafactories to power Europe’s clean mobility shift and to strengthen the continent’s battery independence and industrial resilience. What we cover in this episode: Yann Vincent's personal insights on leadership and his transition from automotive to battery manufacturing ACC's origin story and its vision for Europe's battery independence Battery cell costs, local supply chains, chemistry choices, and EU regulations The impact of electric vehicle (EV) demand on expansion plans and ACC's financing strategies ACC's sustainability efforts, potential moves beyond automotive into energy storage and next-generation battery technologies The importance of local supply chains and partnerships with European battery material suppliers Challenges of competing with Chinese manufacturers, the need for European sovereignty in battery production, and the role of government support and regulations Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to ACC and the European Battery Landscape 02:58 Yann Vincent's Background and the Formation of ACC 05:26 Current Status and Future Plans of ACC 08:08 Yann's Personal Motivations for Transitioning from Automotive to Battery Cell Production 14:02 Challenges in Battery Cell Costs and Competition with China 16:49 The Importance of European Battery Supply Chains for the European Car Industry 18:11 How Europe Can Catch Up with China in Battery Cell Manufacturing 23:50 Tariffs vs. Subsidies as Regulatory Support 27:24 Competitive Advantages and Disadvantages of a Fully European Battery Material Supply Chain 30:06 Navigating Battery Chemistry and Market Trends 35:09 Balancing Manufacturing with R&D 36:37 Is Regulation a Competitive Advantage or a Burden? Sustainability in Battery Production 38:48 How the European Financing Ecosystem is Responding to the Battery Industry 46:09 Market Demand Dynamics and Future Expansion Plans 50:18 Thoughts on Expansion Approach 52:52 Similarities and Differences Between Battery Manufacturing and Car Manufacturing 54:32 Future Outlook for ACC and the Battery Market

August 4, 202545 min

In conversation with Vikram Handa Founder, Managing Director - Epsilon Advanced Materials

In this episode of the Battery Insiders podcast, Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Mr Vikram Handa, Founder and Managing director of Epsilon Advanced Materials, about the critical role of synthetic graphite in battery supply chains. They discuss the innovative production processes, the differences between synthetic and natural graphite, and the cost dynamics affecting the industry. Vikram Handa shares insights on localization strategies, current projects in the US and Finland, and the importance of partnerships for validation in battery materials. The conversation also touches on ESG considerations and the recent acquisition of LFP technology, highlighting the future direction of Epsilon in the battery materials landscape.

June 17, 202540 min

In conversation with Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo SE

In this exclusive battery insiders podcast conversation, Simon Engelke interviews Frank Blome, CEO of PowerCo SE, discussing his journey in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, the evolution of battery technology, and the strategic direction of PowerCo. Blome shares insights on the challenges and innovations in battery production, including the development of solid-state batteries and cost management strategies. He emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable battery ecosystem in Europe and the future of stationary batteries. The conversation concludes with Blome's thoughts on managing global operations and the future outlook for PowerCo.-------------------------------------------------------------------About us: Battery Associates was founded in 2020 to unite battery enthusiasts globally and bring about sustainable energy solutions. B.A leverages the power of individuals to accelerate sustainable battery development and increase access to energy-efficient and sustainable batteries.Website: https://www.battery.associates

April 23, 202548 min

Multilevel Inverters: A Key Innovation for Battery Integration?

In this episode of the Battery Insiders Podcast, Dr. Simon Engelke interviews Niclas Lehnert, co-founder of Pulsetrain, to discuss the innovative technology of multi-level inverters and their potential impact on the electric vehicle industry. They explore the workings of multi-level inverters, the challenges faced in their adoption, the role of AI in extending battery life, and the importance of data in understanding battery performance. The conversation also touches on market entry strategies, weight reduction benefits, and fire safety improvements associated with this technology.

April 10, 202555 min

Advancing Renewable Integration with Innovative Battery Technologies

In this episode of the Battery Insiders Podcast , Dr Simon Engelke speaks with Lord Adair Turner, Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission , about the transformative role of battery technology in achieving net-zero emissions. They discuss the rapid decline in battery costs, the importance of long-duration storage solutions, the challenges and opportunities in electric vehicle integration, regulatory hurdles, investment landscapes, and the global perspectives on energy transition. The conversation highlights the unstoppable momentum towards a sustainable energy future driven by innovation and collaboration.

March 18, 202541 min

Trade, policy & industry growth in Europe's battery industry

In this episode of the Battery Insiders podcast, Simon Engelke speaks with Julia Poliscanova about the current state and future of the battery industry in Europe. They discuss the geopolitical dynamics affecting battery production, the need for a European equivalent to the US Inflation Reduction Act, and the challenges faced by European gigafactories. The conversation also covers energy costs, the UK's role post-Brexit, the Critical Materials Act, and the importance of diversifying supply chains. Julia emphasizes the need for better policies to support local production and technology transfer, as well as the potential for Europe to become self-sufficient in lithium by 2030. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of alliances and partnerships in the global battery market.

December 24, 202423 min

Exploring Hytzer solid-state batteries

In this episode, Dr. Xi Dou, co-founder and CEO of Hytzer Energy, discusses the current state and future potential of solid-state batteries (SSBs). He highlights their advantages, including higher energy density, much higher power density and intrinsically improved safety compared to traditional lithium-ion and other solid-state batteries, and explains the scientific and manufacturing challenges that hinder solid-state battery's commercialization in general. The conversation touches on the root causes of thermal run-away mechanism in conventional lithium-ion batteries and highlights why solid-state batteries address this safety issue; cost reduction potential, with polymer-based SSBs being more compatible with existing production lines. Dr. Dou also outlines key market applications with stringent safety requirements and demanding performance, such as flying taxis and premium electric vehicles. He further describes ongoing innovations, including advanced designs of lithium-metal anodes and anode-free batteries. He concludes with insights into future advancements, including batteries with energy densities exceeding 500 Wh/kg, and the readiness of large-format SSBs for commercial applications. BatteryMBA is an accredited online training program focused on the battery industry. It offers a 12-week course with live and recorded sessions taught by top industry experts. Participants gain in-depth technical and business knowledge, covering various battery topics. The program includes weekly live interactive sessions, access to past and future lecture recordings, and opportunities for networking with a global community of battery professionals. Scholarships are available Website: https://www.battery.mba.

December 3, 202416 min

Chasing Efficiency: How the West Can Compete in the global battery market

In this episode, Our guest speaker Ken Hoffman highlights the competitive advancements in battery technology, particularly in China, where innovations in battery pack design allow for extended ranges and rapid recharge times, giving them an edge over Western models. Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) are also very cost-competitive, putting pressure on Western markets. To close the gap, Western companies are exploring new battery technologies aimed at reducing production costs and improving efficiency. Hoffman suggests that instead of replicating China’s large-scale production methods, the U.S. and Europe should focus on innovative, smaller-scale facilities. He emphasizes the importance of increased investment to build a strong domestic battery supply chain in North America and Europe. BatteryMBA is an accredited online training program focused on the battery industry. It offers a 12-week course with live and recorded sessions taught by top industry experts. Participants gain in-depth technical and business knowledge, covering various battery topics. The program includes weekly live interactive sessions, access to past and future lecture recordings, and opportunities for networking with a global community of battery professionals. Scholarships are available Website: https://www.battery.mba.