Get in touch
To learn more about Unipart’s end to end EV capabilities please contact Lucie Dobeer at lucie.dobeer@unipart.com, and to watch the full podcast click below.
Why end-to-end EV battery logistics is non-negotiable
The EV revolution relies on a complex, often "invisible" infrastructure – the end-to-end battery lifecycle.
Get in touchThe electric vehicle (EV) revolution is accelerating, bringing with it ambitious net-zero targets and a rapidly evolving landscape. Yet, beneath the sleek designs and impressive ranges, lies a complex, often “invisible” infrastructure that is absolutely critical to the success of the EV industry: the end-to-end EV battery lifecycle.
At Unipart, we believe it’s time to bring this vital backbone into the spotlight. As Lucie Dobeer, our Head of Automotive Business Development, recently articulated on the Auto Tech Show podcast, this isn’t just a background operation – it’s a strategic imperative.
Demystifying the “Invisible Infrastructure”
“I hate using the word invisible infrastructure,” Lucie began, ” because actually what it is is a complex, unseen network of logistics, supply chain management, and complete specialist services that are involved in the entire EV battery lifecycle.”
This comprehensive lifecycle spans every stage:
- Manufacturing: From raw materials to finished packs.
- Storage: Ensuring safe and compliant warehousing.
- Transport: Moving high-voltage batteries globally.
- Remanufacturing: Extending battery life and value.
- Repurposing: Giving batteries a second life beyond vehicles.
- Recycling: Recovering valuable materials at end-of-life.
“It’s a critical role in trying to achieve UK net zero targets, establishing a competitive domestic EV industry,” Lucie explained.
The power of a single, integrated solution
Traditionally, managing these intricate stages has meant dealing with a fragmented web of suppliers, contracts, and logistical headaches. For OEMs and battery manufacturers, this can be a source of immense stress and inefficiency.
Lucie powerfully illustrated the burden this places on businesses: “If you think about the multiple suppliers involved in that, how do you manage it? You’ve got multiple suppliers, multiple contracts. That can be really stressful and a lot of work in the team.”
This is precisely where Unipart offers a transformative approach. Our unique integration with Hyperbat, our joint venture for battery manufacturing and remanufacturing, allows us to provide a seamless, singular offering.
“Hyperbat can do that whole battery remanufacturer and manufacturer stage. Hyperbat is part of Unipart and we are the logistics, transport and warehousing supplier,” Lucie emphasised. “So you put it all together and you’re actually offering an OEM, battery manufacturer, or a tier one the whole package. They’re dealing with one person. So doesn’t that alleviate time, money, stress?”
By consolidating these critical functions under one roof, Unipart helps to:
- Reduce administrative overhead and costs.
- Improve traceability and visibility across the entire chain.
- Enhance overall efficiency and reduce lead times.
- Alleviate the significant pressure on internal teams.
Safety, expertise, and the Unipart Way
Handling high-voltage EV batteries demands an uncompromising commitment to safety and an unparalleled depth of expertise. This is deeply embedded in Unipart’s DNA, refined over 50 years of heritage in complex supply chain management.
“When it comes to EV you are looking at high voltage dangerous goods,” Lucie stated. “So there is a huge element and focus on training. Without that experience you shouldn’t be doing it.”
Our approach is guided by “The Unipart Way,” our renowned operational excellence philosophy. This isn’t just a set of procedures; it’s a culture of continuous improvement, rigorous training, and unwavering dedication to safety. We invest heavily in our people, providing the tools, equipment, and training necessary to handle these critical components safely and effectively.
Beyond transactions: A strategic partnership
At Unipart, we reject the notion of being merely a transactional vendor. We strive to be an extension of our customers’ teams, deeply integrated into their operations and committed to their success.
“I really don’t want to be a transactional partner with anyone anymore,” Lucie declared. “I have one OEM that I worked so closely with, they cleared a desk for me. I was part of their team – and that’s exactly what we are trying to provide. We should be there. We should be visible. We should be taking some of that stress away.”
This partnership approach means:
- Proactive problem solving: Identifying and addressing challenges before they impact operations.
- Shared goals: Aligning our expertise with your strategic objectives, from sustainability to efficiency.
- Unwavering support: Providing a constant presence and reliable solutions.
By embracing this model, we help OEMs and battery manufacturers navigate the complexities of the EV landscape with confidence, contributing directly to the UK’s net-zero targets and ensuring the robust growth of the domestic EV industry.
The EV journey is dynamic and challenging, but with an integrated, expert partner like Unipart managing the end-to-end battery lifecycle, the path to a sustainable and efficient future becomes much clearer. We’re not just moving batteries; we’re powering progress.