UK's Largest EV Battery Repair Hub Opens in Rugby
A groundbreaking partnership between Cox Automotive and DHL Supply Chain has led to the establishment of an advanced electric vehicle (EV) battery repair and remanufacturing center. This state-of-the-art facility, located at DHL’s EV Center of Excellence in Rugby, spans 35,000 square feet and is set to become the largest battery management operation in the UK. The new center aims to provide comprehensive support for EV battery maintenance both within and outside warranty periods, addressing a critical need in the automotive industry. By leveraging specialized services from Cox Automotive and logistics expertise from DHL, this collaboration promises to enhance the infrastructure required for sustainable EV adoption.
The facility will offer a wide range of services including triage, repair, and remanufacturing of EV batteries. These services are provided by Cox Automotive’s newly launched UK branch, EV Battery Solutions, which has already established itself in the US and Europe. The integration of DHL’s logistics capabilities ensures efficient handling, transportation, and storage of batteries, further enhancing the overall service offering. This strategic alliance comes as part of Cox Automotive’s ongoing efforts to address challenges faced by the automotive sector, such as consumer concerns over EV durability and a shortage of technical expertise.
Martin Forbes, President of Cox Automotive International, emphasized the importance of this initiative in supporting the transition to electric vehicles. With dedicated space for battery repairs, the facility can deliver essential services under one roof, providing customers with unparalleled convenience. Moreover, it complements existing vehicle services at Bruntingthorpe, just 13 miles away, creating a robust network for EV support.
This development also marks a significant milestone following Cox Automotive’s acquisition of Spiers New Technologies (SNT) in 2021. SNT’s operations in the US and Netherlands have been pivotal in shaping EV Battery Solutions, ensuring that the UK market benefits from global best practices. Paul Stone, Managing Director of Manufacturing Logistics at DHL Supply Chain, highlighted the complexity involved in managing EV batteries and how this partnership sets a new standard for battery circularity and sustainability.
The launch of this facility represents a major advancement in the UK’s push towards a more sustainable automotive future. By providing end-to-end solutions for EV batteries, Cox Automotive and DHL Supply Chain are not only meeting current market demands but also paving the way for a scalable circular economy in the EV sector. This innovative approach promises to streamline battery management processes, making EV ownership more viable and environmentally friendly.