Contemporary Star Energy, the joint venture created by Stellantis and CATL with the aim of moving towards affordable, sustainable and accessible electric mobility, has started construction of its battery gigafactory in Zaragoza. Strategically located next to Stellantis’ plant in Figueruelas, the project represents an investment of up to 4.1 billion euros and will create more than 4,000 direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs.

The plant will begin producing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries at the end of 2026 and will have a capacity of up to 50 GWh. According to the company, it will be one of the most advanced facilities in Europe, designed to operate as a carbon-neutral plant. It will in this way  be aligned with Stellantis' strategic plan and CATL's global vision.

Improving efficiency and safety
The facilities will incorporate cutting-edge technologies. The clearest example is the Cell-to-Body design, which will make it possible to integrate the cells directly into the structure of the vehicle, improving efficiency and safety. To achieve carbon neutrality, the plant will be powered by a renewable energy supply of more than 80% and will apply Industry 4.0 standards to ensure smart and sustainable processes.

The project will in addition help strengthen the European value chain in terms of batteries for electric vehicles. It will also foster collaboration with universities and other local training centres and attract strategic suppliers. This will achieve the goal of consolidating the region as a hub for innovation and competitiveness in electric mobility.

Vision and spirit of collaboration
During the laying of the project’s foundation stone, a time capsule (shown in the image) was placed that will remain sealed until 2045. Objects and accounts were placed inside it that reflect the vision and spirit of collaboration that have driven this project on Spanish soil between the French and Chinese companies.

In the words of Contemporary Star Energy CEO Andy Wu during the event, “Today we are not only laying the first stone of a gigafactory, but we are also sending a message to the future: our commitment to innovation, sustainability and the creation of shared value”.

^{Photo: Stellantis}