CPI joins consortium to deliver a first-of-a-kind EV Li-ion battery chemical demonstrator plant

As the UK accelerates its shift to low-carbon transport and renewable energy, the need for sustainably produced battery materials becomes critical.

FluoRok has been awarded a ~£1.5 million Demonstrate grant under the Department for Business and Trade’s £2.5 billion DRIVE35 programme, delivered through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) and part of the Advanced Manufacturing Plan to strengthen Britain’s zero-emission vehicle supply chain.

The new facility, which will produce large-scale volumes per annum, is based on FluoRok’s innovative fluorochemical manufacturing process, using commercial scale manufacturing technologies. The project is designed to enable industrial-scale production and address a strategic UK supply chain vulnerability.

Alongside production scale-up, the project will include:

• Qualification testing in lithium-ion batteries.
• A strong emphasis on sustainability, circularity and production efficiency.
• A public showcase at the 2026 CENEX Expo.

This initiative contributes directly to the UK’s ambitions for green growth, technological sovereignty, and a robust low-carbon automotive sector.

Dr Keri Goodwin, Chief Technologist at CPI, said:

“We’re excited to partner with FluoRok and Coventry University to accelerate the commercialisation of this essential fluorochemical process. This aligns perfectly with CPI’s mission to support advanced materials innovation and strengthen UK manufacturing capability in the electrification sector.”

Dr Gabriele Pupo, CEO of FluoRok, said:

“This award marks a pivotal step for UK battery chemistry and national supply chain resilience. By demonstrating scalable, UK-based production of LiPF₆, we’re addressing a critical bottleneck in the EV value chain. We’re proud to be working alongside CPI and Coventry University to deliver technology with lasting environmental and economic impact.”

Prof. Alex Roberts at Coventry University, said:

“This collaboration brings together industrial chemistry, manufacturing know-how, and academic excellence. Our research teams are eager to contribute deep expertise in battery cell prototyping and performance evaluation that will help ensure the project’s commercial success and environmental responsibility.”

Ian Constance, CEO of the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK and Zenzic, said:

“This new investment underlines the commitment from Government to secure advanced manufacturing in the UK. I am pleased that the APC, Zenzic, and its delivery partners are here to facilitate a new wave of funding in the automotive industry, supporting innovation, driving scale-up, and enabling transformation.”