Particle.news
Download on the App Store

ACC Deems New Battery Plants 'Completely Irresponsible' as Kaiserslautern Investment Is Halted

ACC says the slower EV market makes new factories unjustifiable.

Overview

  • Automotive Cells Company confirmed it has stopped planned investments in Kaiserslautern and Termoli, citing weak electric‑vehicle demand and the risk that new gigafactories would sit underused.
  • In a detailed statement, the StellantisMercedes‑Benz–TotalEnergies venture called further plant commitments "completely irresponsible" and said it is negotiating terms for ending both projects.
  • IG Metall pledged to hold a "bridgehead" at the Kaiserslautern site, resist any land sale, and press ACC’s shareholders and policymakers to salvage the investment.
  • The shelved plan envisioned roughly 2,000 jobs supported by about €437 million in public funding, with a developed site and a negotiated collective agreement for the workforce.
  • Rhineland‑Palatinate leaders indicated they will back efforts to find alternative uses for the former Opel grounds, as ACC focuses on ramping its Douvrin, France, factory after delays and higher costs.