Merlin Frank joins the latest episode of the German-language Geladen podcast. A battery researcher pursuing his PhD at PEM at RWTH Aachen University, Frank discusses who benefits from the growth of electric mobility. The conversation focuses on the relationship between automakers and their battery suppliers, as well as the role of Chinese battery cell manufacturer CATL.
The selection of electric vehicles is growing. Yet different car brands often rely on the same battery suppliers. What does this mean for Europe’s auto industry? Where do dependencies arise, and which parts of the value chain remain with automakers?
Frank explores these questions using a market analysis by PEM. It links European new vehicle registration data with information on vehicles, battery systems, and cell suppliers. The conversation also examines which battery improvements matter in everyday use: longer range, lower costs, or other technical features.
Listen to the full Geladen podcast episode featuring Merlin Frank (in German).
More from Merlin Frank: “Im Spannungsfeld”
Frank offers further scientific insights on his new YouTube channel, “Im Spannungsfeld,” powered by Battery-News. He explains the science behind batteries, electric mobility, and the circular economy. His goal is to make these technologies understandable while examining both their potential and their limitations. The channel’s content is in German.
