Milestone in Parets del Vallès: Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has launched serial production of Battery Cell Envelopes, demonstrating how technical expertise, strong teamwork, and close customer collaboration can come together to create a forward-looking component for the future of electric mobility.
A new generation of high-performance, sustainable batteries. Fast charging, safe, reliable, long-lasting, and affordable. That is the vision of Automotive Cells Company (ACC), a European joint venture formed by Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, and Saft/TotalEnergies. Founded in 2020, this battery technology specialist is relying on the expertise of Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) to help achieve its ambitious goals.
At the center of the collaboration is the Battery Cell Envelope (BCE). FST develops these cell stack enclosures for prismatic battery cells, the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems. The innovative components serve multiple functions, including protecting the battery cell stack and providing electrical insulation. Tight dimensional tolerances and exceptional cleanliness are among the key requirements for the product.
Serial production of BCEs has now begun in a newly constructed cleanroom facility at FST’s site in Parets del Vallès, Spain. In a strong example of cross-functional collaboration, FST successfully installed the new production line, commissioned the equipment, and completed the ramp-up to full production volumes. ACC has recognized this achievement, auditing both the performance of state-of-the-art manufacturing systems and process stability according to the VDA 6.3 standard, with positive results.
Beyond the current ACC project, the new cleanroom manufacturing technology positions FST for additional business opportunities. The production line is also capable of manufacturing the next generation of BCEs using nonwoven materials from Freudenberg Performance Materials (FPM). This opens up new possibilities for customers to optimize battery cell designs. For example, advanced material solutions can significantly improve both cycle life and overall battery durability. The start of serial production represents not only an important milestone, but also a foundation for future growth and innovation.
Perspectives on the Start of BCE Serial Production in Parets del Vallès:
Those involved emphasized the outstanding collaboration across functions, both internally and with external partners, which was instrumental in the successful startup of the production line. They also thanked everyone involved for their commitment and contributions throughout the project.
Roy Schroeder, Vice President Lead Center Fluid Power Automotive:
“The team has overcome a wide range of significant challenges to reach this milestone: an outstanding achievement.”
Jan Witte, Senior Vice President, Fluid Power Division:
“What makes this achievement impressive is not only the successful ramp-up of the production line, the strong audit result, and the PPAP submission, but the fact that all of this was accomplished in parallel and within an ambitious timeframe.”
(Editor’s Note: PPAP – Production Part Approval Process – is a standardized process used to validate product and manufacturing quality before full-scale production begins.)
José Queiruga, Vice President Technology, Fluid Power Division:
“This is proof that a dedicated hard working passionate team with great leadership can succeed.”
Nathan Weiker, Technical Director, Lead Center Fluid Power Automotive, also highlighted the next steps on the journey toward operational excellence:
“Our focus now shifts to closing the remaining actions, optimizing performance, and driving continuous improvement. The foundation is in place, and I am confident this team is well positioned to successfully execute the next phase.”
