RISE Urges Europe to Take the Lead in Next-Generation Battery Innovation to Stay Competitive in the Global EV Race

"The global EV transition is not just a race – it's a strategic contest that will define industrial leadership in the decades to come,” says Franz Evegren, Director of Product Safety at RISE. “China and the U.S. have moved decisively with large-scale public investments, while Europe still hesitates. We must change course – and fast.”

China currently dominates global production in solar, batteries, and EVs – a result of long-term industrial planning. For lithium-ion batteries, China controls over 50% of the global export. Meanwhile, Europe is estimated to lag behind by 7–10 years in battery technology and infrastructure, according to Dunne Insights. Compounding this challenge is a surge in low-cost battery exports from China, driven by overcapacity and aggressive pricing – a development that risks undercutting European automotive manufacturers.

Franz Evegren, Director of Product Safety at RISE, during EVS38 (International Electric Vehicle Symposium & Exhibition) – the world's largest electric vehicle conference.

”Lyten’s acquisition of Northvolt is a welcome development that strengthens the conditions for battery innovation in Sweden and Europe,” says Dina Dedic, Program Manager for the RISE Battery Program. “RISE contributes independent expertise and technical infrastructure as part of this ecosystem, but we also recognize that Europe still faces significant challenges – from skills supply to access to materials, components, and advanced production technologies.”

Call for a New European Trajectory

RISE argues that Europe cannot catch up by following in the path of its global competitors. Instead, we must chart a new course rooted in sustainability, innovation, and regulatory leadership.

“There is still time to take the lead – but we must act strategically,” Evegren continues. “Our advantage lies in creating sustainable battery technologies with low environmental impact, high recyclability, and second-life potential.”

Citing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the findings of the Letta, Draghi and Heitor reports, RISE reinforced the need for:

Public support for homegrown battery cell manufacturing to ensure industrial sovereignty.

Strict sustainability standards across the battery value chain.

Greater knowledge sharing and cross-border collaboration, including a 'fifth freedom' to enhance research and innovation across the EU.

Leading by Example: Sustainable Testing at RISE

As part of its commitment, RISE has invested in one of Europe’s most advanced battery safety labs, designed to test EV batteries under extreme conditions while minimizing environmental impact. Notably, 20% of the lab's construction cost was dedicated to emissions cleaning infrastructure, demonstrating how sustainability and safety can go hand-in-hand.

“At RISE, we test EV batteries from all the major manufacturers – not only to ensure safety but to raise the bar for how sustainable battery testing should be conducted,” says Evegren. “We believe the days of 'black marks after greenification' must come to an end.”

Europe Must Lead Through Innovation – Not Cost-Cutting

RISE concludes that Europe’s future in batteries won’t be won on cost, but on innovation, quality, and sustainability.

“To stay competitive, we need to scale faster, align our efforts across sectors, and act boldly,” Evegren emphasizes. “Europe’s strength lies in its ability to innovate with purpose. If we succeed, we can redefine the EV industry on our own terms.”

About RISE Research Institutes of Sweden
RISE is Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner. Through international collaboration programs, tech infrastructures, and applied research, RISE helps drive sustainable growth and competitiveness for industry and society.

Media Contact:
Franz Evegren, Director of Product Safety, RISE
Email: Franz.evegren@ri.se
Phone: +46 70 321 50 88

Dina Dedic, Program Manager RISE Battery Program, RISE
Email: dinda.dedic@ri.se
Phone: +46 76 876 71 39