OBIC
Accelerating battery cell industrialisation in the Netherlands
The transition towards electrification requires continuous innovation in battery technology. To bridge the gap between laboratory research and industrial-scale production, Open Battery Industrialisation Centre (OBIC) is being established at the Automotive Campus in Helmond. The initiative is powered by Holst Centre, TNO and VDL, bringing together expertise from across the Dutch battery ecosystem.
Bridging innovation and industrialisation
Many promising battery innovations never reach large-scale production due to challenges in validation, scalability and manufacturing readiness. OBIC addresses this gap by providing an industrial R&D pilot line where new battery materials, production processes and equipment can be tested and validated under realistic manufacturing conditions.
The facility enables technology developers, research institutes and industrial partners to demonstrate the added value of new battery concepts with reliable performance, quality and cost data before moving towards commercial production.
The role of VDL ETS
VDL ETS contributes its expertise in battery technology, industrialisation and testing to support the development of next-generation battery cells. Within the collaboration, VDL ETS is involved in cell activation, formation cycling, quality control, health monitoring and durability validation. This allows innovative cell technologies to be evaluated under realistic operational conditions and accelerates the path towards market adoption.
By combining battery cell development with module, pack and vehicle integration knowledge, VDL ETS helps connect innovation across the entire battery value chain.
Building a stronger battery ecosystem
OBIC forms an important link within the Dutch and European battery ecosystem. The facility supports start-ups, technology developers, equipment suppliers and OEMs by offering access to pilot-scale manufacturing and validation capabilities. The centre enables the production of high-quality pouch cells, while remaining flexible enough to incorporate emerging battery chemistries and next-generation materials.
In addition to technology validation, OBIC contributes to knowledge development, workforce training and strengthening the competitiveness of the European battery industry.
Key highlights
Battery Industrialisation
Validation
Ecosystem Collaboration
Market Readiness
VDL Enabling Transport Solutions
Automotive Campus 59 5708 JZ Helmond The Netherlands