This year was full of remarkable highlights:

One particular milestone was the grand opening of the “FFB PreFab” in spring 2024. With 6,800 square meters of state-of-the-art research space, the facility offers innovative opportunities to develop new battery cell concepts and manufacturing processes on a smaller scale. The official opening ceremony on April 30 at the Hansa-BusinessPark in Münster marked the beginning of expanded battery cell research and set the stage for the future “FFB Fab,” where industrial-scale research will continue.  The relocation of the laboratories from the “FFB Workspace” to the new innovation laboratories of the “FFB PreFab” also represents an important step in our growth process.

Formation of the First Prismatic FFB Prototype Cells

In collaboration with our research partners, Fraunhofer FFB reached a significant milestone within the “FoFeBat” project. In April 2024, the first prismatic FFB prototype cell was successfully filled and formed. This energizing process of the innovative cell design marks a pivotal step forward in advancing battery technology.

Publications and successful qualification

With the publication of the white papers “The Power of Digitalization in Battery Cell Manufacturing” and “Mastering Ramp-up of Battery Production”, Fraunhofer FFB presented practical approaches to optimizing the efficiency and sustainability of battery cell production. These papers highlight how digital technologies can significantly reduce costs and emissions in cell factories, with notable savings identified in reject rates and energy consumption. Additionally, they address key challenges and solutions for scaling up battery production effectively on a large scale.

Another highlight was the successful qualification of a Fraunhofer FFB team for phase 2 of the Fraunhofer “AHEAD program”. The team is developing an autonomous, mobile mini-environment for the energy-efficient transport of sensitive intermediate products in battery factories. This innovative technology promises up to 55% cost savings and notable efficiency gains in battery production. Supported by a €100,000 grant and comprehensive mentoring, the team is working toward market readiness, with the exciting prospect of a future spin-off.

Battery research under pressure

At the beginning of the year, news of the planned removal of the “Measures for the further development of electromobility” title in the Climate and Transformation Fund (KTF) shook Germany's battery research sector. Fraunhofer FFB's basic funding and the successful implementation of our project to establish research production are not affected by the federal government's financial cuts. Nevertheless, we are greatly concerned about the planned cuts in battery research funding. In numerous discussions and hearings at federal and state levels, we have expressed our concerns and emphasized the relevance of battery research for Germany's technological future. 

Together into the future

In 2024, our employees attended numerous national and international conferences and trade fairs. Through presentations, poster sessions, and trade fair appearances, we promote dialog between science and industry and drive forward practical solutions. We look forward to being present again next year, including at Advanced Battery Power in Aachen (April 2 - 3, 2025) and, for the first time, with our stand at the Battery Show in Stuttgart (June 3 - 5, 2025)

A heartfelt thank you

As the year draws to a close, we would like to thank all our partners, employees, and supporters. On behalf of the entire Fraunhofer FFB, we wish you, your team, and your family a Merry Christmas, relaxing holidays, and a peaceful start to a happy and healthy New Year 2025!