宁德时代与韩国Solus签订合作！

Core Viewpoint - CATL is accelerating its expansion in the European market by signing a copper foil supply contract with South Korea's Solus Advanced Materials, which will supply copper foil products from its Hungarian factory starting in 2026 [2][5]. Group 1: CATL's European Strategy - CATL is focused on localizing production in Europe to address the lack of domestic manufacturing capabilities [6]. - The partnership with Solus marks the first collaboration between a Korean copper foil supplier and CATL in Europe [5]. - CATL's European production bases include facilities in Germany, Hungary, and Spain, forming a triangular matrix for production [25]. Group 2: Solus Advanced Materials Overview - Solus is a significant player in the lithium battery copper foil market, with a strong technological foundation and a history of innovation since developing the world's first battery foil in 1996 [10][8]. - The company has expanded its production capabilities in Hungary, with its first factory starting operations in 2019 and a second factory approved for expansion [13]. - Solus plans to invest CAD 750 million (approximately USD 550 million) in a new copper foil factory in Quebec, Canada, aiming for a production capacity of 25,000 tons by 2026 [13]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Competition - South Korean companies, including Solus, have established a strong presence in the global lithium battery copper foil market, often ahead of Chinese competitors in overseas production [17]. - Chinese companies are beginning to catch up, with several investing in overseas production facilities, such as Hailiang's projects in Indonesia and Morocco [20][21]. - The technology for producing ultra-thin copper foil (4.5μm and below) is being developed by multiple Chinese firms, indicating a competitive edge in the market [22]. Group 4: Future Prospects for CATL - CATL's expansion in Europe is expected to significantly increase its production capacity, with projections of nearly 200 GWh of new capacity by 2027 and 2028 [26]. - The company is raising funds through an IPO in Hong Kong, with 90% of the proceeds earmarked for the construction of its Hungarian facilities [26].