Chinese battery manufacturer Eve Power has obtained the necessary environmental permit for its Debrecen battery factory, clearing the way for construction to proceed. The plant, located in eastern Hungary, will be a significant supplier to BMW’s Neue Klasse electric vehicle lineup, reinforcing Hungary’s growing role in the European EV supply chain.
The company emphasized its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, highlighting a unique water conservation technology that allows industrial use of treated wastewater—an innovation that minimizes reliance on drinking water during production. According to haon.hu, this approach is rare not only in Hungary but globally.
Local authorities have also taken proactive steps to ensure environmental safety. One key measure limits industrial facilities to using only 5% of the city’s clean drinking water supply. Eve Power stated that it aims to be a "good neighbour" to the community by working collaboratively with residents and implementing best practices from its existing global operations.
Eve Power’s Debrecen factory will have a direct impact on BMW’s local production, particularly in supplying batteries for the all-electric Neue Klasse X model, currently in test production at BMW’s Debrecen facility. The collaboration between BMW and Eve Power followed extensive negotiations, underscoring the plant’s strategic significance for both companies.
Government and Regulatory Compliance
The Hungarian government and local authorities had set clear expectations even before approving the project:
- Stricter-than-EU regulations for industrial and environmental safety
- Maximum transparency in project development and operations
- Commitment to sustainability and economic benefits
Investment and Economic Impact
Eve Power announced in May 2023 that it would invest HUF 400 billion (€980 million) to establish its first European plant in Debrecen. The project is set to create over 1,000 jobs, strengthening Hungary’s position as a hub for EV battery production.
- Construction Timeline:
- Earthworks began in late 2023
- Completion scheduled for end of 2025
- Operations to start in 2026 with an initial production line
- Gradual capacity expansion planned
The approval of Eve Power’s factory underscores Hungary’s ambition to become a leading player in Europe’s EV battery industry, ensuring economic growth while prioritizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.
