Comau has expanded its partnership with US-based Intecells, investing in the battery technology start-up as part of a bid to advance the use of cold plasma in industrial cell manufacturing.
The renewed collaboration builds on an earlier phase focused on industrialising Intecells’ patented cold plasma process.
Under the new agreement, Comau will take an equity stake in Intecells and work jointly to validate the cost-efficient technology with customers, integrating it into existing manufacturing lines. The aim is to cut energy use and cycle times during soaking and drying stages while eliminating the need for solvents and binders.
The companies said the partnership will also target improvements in cell capacity, cycle life, and production quality across a range of battery formats.
Comau, part of Stellantis, is a key player in automation and robotics for the electrification sector, with operations spanning the entire battery lifecycle—from cell formation to module assembly, testing, and recycling.
The company is seeking to capitalise on a fast-growing market, as global electric vehicle battery production is forecast to grow at an average compound annual rate of 15% between 2025 and 2030. Energy storage, too, is set to expand by 15–18% annually, with total installed capacity expected to reach 1.5 TWh by the end of the decade.
“This new initiative reflects our broader commitment to investing in innovation as a driver of sustainable growth,” said Pietro Gorlier, Comau’s Chief Executive. “In fast-moving sectors like electric mobility and stationary storage, it’s essential to combine technological excellence with operational agility. Our work with Intecells demonstrates how we’re advancing smart, scalable solutions that can be integrated into new and existing battery lines.”
Xiaohong Gayden, Intecells’ Founder and Chief Executive, welcomed the investment as a milestone in the company’s growth. “This marks the beginning of a strong partnership that will help us expand faster, innovate further, and deliver greater value to our customers,” she said.
Comau, headquartered in Turin, employs around 3,800 people across 11 countries and operates seven innovation centres and 11 manufacturing sites. Intecells, based in Michigan, specialises in plasma-based manufacturing technologies designed to cut energy use, capital expenditure, and CO₂ emissions in battery production.
