CEO of Samsung SDI Yoon-ho Choi visited the EcoProBM Ochang campus and discussed ways to cooperatively entering overseas markets. EcoProBM is Samsung SDI’s partner company that manufactures core materials for Samsung SDI's EV batteries.
It is reported that CEO Choi met with EcoProBM Co CEOs Jae-hwan Joo and Moon-ho Choi to discuss ways to cooperate with Samsung SDI, mainly focused on investment for global EV battery expansion. Beginning with its European plant, Samsung SDI is promoting to expand its plant in Malaysia, as well as EV battery plant construction in the US.
The cathode material is a key material that enhances the performance of EV batteries, and accounts for more than 40% of the material cost for EV batteries. EcoProBM’s nickel, cobalt, aluminum (NCA) cathode material m is used in Samsung SDI's EV batteries. The cathode materials with a nickel content of 80% were applied to 5th generation of Samsung SDI’s EV battery product. Both companies are also developing a cathode material with 90% nickel content in response to the EV battery market. This product under development may improve the performance of EV batteries and increase productivity simultaneously.
Samsung SDI operates the EcoProEM joint venture with EcoProBM, and is enhancing supply chain for its NCA cathode materials. The joint venture specializes in manufacturing high-nickel NCA cathode materials for EV batteries. All NCA cathode materials produced at the joint venture are applied to Samsung SDI’s EV battery products.
The relationship between two companies is expected to be strengthened with Samsung SDI's overseas EV battery plant investment. EcoProBM is preparing to construct a cathode material plant in the US with a global auto manufacturer, Stellantis. NCA cathode materials that supply to Samsung SDI are expected to be produced overseas.
Samsung SDI is expected to build a global cathode material business sites ahead of the overseas business sites expansion.
By Staff Reporter Ji-woong Kim (jw0316@etnews.com)