Green light for CATL – the major investment is gaining momentum

A major European investment project is reaching further important milestones: Following CATL's decision, the Chinese global market leader in the production of battery cells for e-mobility, to build its first factory outside of China in Thuringia, construction of the plant began at the end of 2019. With this new facility, Thuringia will become one of the largest locations for the production, development, and research of battery cell technology. CATL is investing a total of €1.8 billion in the "Erfurter Kreuz" industrial park and creating up to 2,000 jobs. The first phase of the plant's expansion, for which approval has now been granted, will achieve a capacity of eight gigawatt-hours. As Matthias Zentgraf explained, this corresponds to an annual battery capacity for approximately 120,000 electric vehicles. According to the company, CATL will supply all major German automotive manufacturers with battery cells in the future. CATL already employs 500 people, and the interior fit-out of the new building complex, which stretches over half a kilometer, is currently underway. The handover was also attended by LEG Managing Director Andreas Krey and LEG Authorized Representative and Department Head Dr. Arnulf Wulff – LEG is providing CATL with full-service support throughout all stages of the relocation and beyond. Furthermore, LEG is developing and marketing the "Erfurter Kreuz" industrial site, where CATL acquired its property. (hw)