By Kim Seung-yeon
SEOUL, Sept. 5 (Yonhap) — SK On Co. is hoping to forge strong ties with multiple automakers in the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector, particularly in Europe where the competition is becoming more intense, its co-chief has said.
Chey Jae-won, executive vice chairman of SK Group and a co-head of the battery-making unit SK On, made the remarks at a motor show in Germany, noting the automakers’ approach to the EV industry is changing faster than anticipated.
“Strategic alterations among global automakers in the EV sector are happening faster than expected,” Chey told reporters while touring booths at IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich on Monday (local time).
“As the battle for supremacy in the European battery market is heating up, we will look to broaden close business collaborations with various automakers, including existing customers,” Chey said.
Chey declined to comment when asked to name potential partners.
Chey also refused to give comments on the speculation over SK’s possible collaboration with Volkswagen A.G. for prismatic cells.
“We have completed the development of prismatic batteries, and preparation is well under way,” Chey said.
SK On unveiled its first prismatic cell mockup at a battery show in Seoul in March, with a plan to start production of pilot samples within this year.
SK Group Executive Vice Chairman Chey Jae-won (2nd from L) listens to a BMW official explaining about a vehicle at an exhibit at its booth in the IAA Mobility in Munich, Germany, on Sept. 4, 2023, in this photo provided by SK On Co. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
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