In a significant move to enhance its industrial value chain for electric vehicles, Morocco is set to inaugurate a large-scale battery manufacturing facility in Kenitra. This strategic initiative aims to leverage the country's abundant raw material resources and advantageous geographical location to establish connections with markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Chinese battery technology giant Gotion High-Tech has announced that it will commence testing operations at its state-of-the-art lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production plant on October 20. This facility marks a historic milestone as it is the first large-scale production site for LFP batteries in Africa.
According to Gotion Power Maroc, a subsidiary of Gotion High-Tech, the plant will initially produce LFP batteries with a planned capacity of 20 GWh. These products are intended to serve not only the Moroccan market but also extend to other African nations, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.
To date, Gotion Power Maroc has employed over 400 local workers, most of whom have received training at the company’s production facilities in China, showcasing a commitment to skill development and local workforce empowerment.
The project was officially launched in June 2024, with an initial investment of 12.8 billion Dirhams corresponding to a capacity of 20 GWh. If the capacity expands to 100 GWh, total investments could soar to 65 billion Dirhams, ultimately creating 17,000 direct and indirect jobs, including 2,300 positions requiring high skill levels.
International funding is being mobilized for this ambitious project. On July 24, the African Development Bank (AfDB) approved a loan of 100 million euros for Gotion Power Maroc and announced plans to raise an additional 141 million euros from financial partners.
Achraf Tarsim, the AfDB Director in Morocco, stated that this project will significantly enhance Morocco's industrial competitiveness and accelerate its goal of becoming a central hub for electric vehicle production in Africa.
Adding to the excitement, German automotive giant Volkswagen and battery manufacturer PowerCo entered into an agreement with Gotion on September 28 to establish three joint ventures. Among these is a facility in Morocco dedicated to the production of LFP batteries and cathode materials for these batteries.
According to Volkswagen, Gotion will hold 51% of the capital, while PowerCo will hold 49%. Both parties will jointly operate the facility, pending necessary approvals from regulatory authorities and Gotion shareholders.
This groundbreaking initiative not only positions Morocco as a key player in the electric vehicle industry but also highlights the nation's commitment to sustainable industrial growth and technological advancement.
As reported by vietnam.vn.
