Nissan, Sumitomo, plan lithium-ion battery recycling

Nissan Motor and Sumitomo Corp. have announced joint plans to “Reuse, Resell, Refabricate and Recycle” lithium-ion batteries previously used in electric cars, giving them a “second-life” as energy-storage systems worldwide. The 4R business model is designed to capitalize on the supply of reusable lithium-ion batteries as electric cars achieve widespread acceptance. Nissan said the venture would enable it to achieve high residual values for electric car batteries and support its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of automobiles. For Sumitomo, second-life batteries will augment a wide range of its existing businesses, such as raw materials supply, car leasing, logistics and recycling. (October 22, 2009)