Clarios Announces Plans to Acquire Ecobat

Clarios announced plans to acquire Ecobat, including the company’s three U.S. critical mineral recovery and processing facilities. Clarios manufactures low-voltage automotive batteries and advanced energy storage solutions. The proposed acquisition would preserve and strengthen domestic critical mineral processing and recovery capacity amid growing demand and supply chain concerns. By integrating these facilities into its circular supply network, Clarios aims to recover, process and return valuable materials to U.S. manufacturers.

Clarios Acquisition Includes Three U.S. Facilities

The proposed acquisition includes three critical mineral recovery facilities in City of Industry, California; Indianapolis; and Middletown, New York. The transaction also includes Ecobat’s Dallas office. Together, these facilities currently process more than 40 million batteries annually, recovering lead, tin, antimony and other materials.

The companies expect to close the transaction by early 2027, pending customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

“As a world leader in critical minerals processing and recovery, Clarios is uniquely positioned to strengthen this highly capable U.S. recycling operation supported by an experienced workforce,” said Clarios CEO Mark Wallace. “We see a significant opportunity to build on Ecobat’s foundation by evaluating opportunities for future investment in these operations and supporting the continued success of the business. Together, these facilities will strengthen domestic critical mineral recycling capacity, enhance supply chain security, and support the U.S. manufacturing base for years to come.”

Companies Outline Transition Plans

As part of the transition, Clarios will maintain and build upon Ecobat’s environmental, health and safety practices across the acquired facilities. Following closing, Clarios will combine the best practices of both organizations. The company said this approach aligns with its commitment to responsible operations and local communities.

Clarios and Ecobat intend to work closely with employees, union representatives and regulators throughout the review and transition process. They will focus on operational continuity, environmental compliance, workforce stability and long-term investment in U.S. critical mineral processing and recovery capacity.

“I am proud of what our North American team has built. These facilities are vital to the country’s supply of recycled critical minerals, and our team has earned an industry-recognized record of safety and environmental performance,” said Tom Slabe, Ecobat president and CEO. “Clarios has made a public commitment to investing in U.S. recycling capacity, and that makes it the right owner for the next chapter. This transaction completes the strategic initiative we announced with the earlier sale of our European operations, and it delivers a strong outcome for Ecobat’s stakeholders.”

Acquisition Would Expand Battery Recycling Capacity

Clarios operates closed-loop battery processing and recovery systems. The company collects used batteries, recovers critical materials and manufactures new batteries using recycled content. The proposed acquisition would strengthen Clarios’ closed-loop model, expand access to critical materials and improve domestic battery supply chain resilience.

The transaction also represents an investment in the U.S. industrial base and workforce while supporting domestic supply chain independence. Recycled lead batteries represent the country’s largest domestic source of recovered critical minerals. These include antimony, lead and tin, which support defense and advanced technology applications.

Investment Supports U.S. Manufacturing Strategy

The investment advances Clarios’ broader $6 billion U.S. Energy Manufacturing Strategy. That strategy includes a $1.9 billion commitment to strengthen domestic critical mineral recycling and processing capabilities.

The proposed acquisition would preserve existing recycling infrastructure while creating opportunities for future expansion. Clarios will continue evaluating opportunities to expand its capabilities across the United States.

Ecobat Completes Portfolio Transformation

The sale marks the final step in a portfolio transformation Ecobat began in 2025. Over approximately 16 months, the company completed 10 divestitures spanning 17 sites across six countries. These transactions included the sale of its European operations. The proposed sale of its North American platform to Clarios would conclude that transformation.