MFM Korea Signs MOU with Clever, a Specialized Battery Automation Equipment Manufacturer

MFMC Korea announced on the 8th that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the 7th with Clever, a specialized secondary battery equipment company, for business cooperation and joint projects aimed at the development and mass production of all-solid-state batteries.

MFMC Korea will invest in the development of post-processing automation equipment for all-solid-state batteries, which Clever is promoting with overseas companies. All-solid-state batteries are next-generation batteries that replace the electrolyte, which transfers ions between the cathode and anode, with a solid material. They have the advantages of high energy density and reduced risk of fire or explosion.

Founded in 2014, Clever focuses on developing folding, inspection, cell packing, and taping machine equipment for the formation process stage, one of the three major manufacturing processes (electrode, assembly, formation) of lithium secondary batteries.

Clever plans to establish a joint venture (JV) with overseas companies and prepare for the mass production of all-solid-state batteries. The mass production plant is likely to be located in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, where Clever's existing factory is situated. MFMC Korea will also cooperate in the distribution business of all-solid-state batteries produced by Clever's JV.

They added, "Along with the stable operation of existing businesses, the company plans to focus its capabilities on advancing the all-solid-state battery business as a new growth engine."

Meanwhile, the government announced a commercialization plan for all-solid-state batteries in April, aiming to secure a technological lead in the battery sector. The public and private sectors plan to invest 20 trillion won by 2030.