Kuehne + Nagel has launched KN BatteryChain, the first integrated supply chain solution addressing the increasing global demand for lithium batteries driven by battery-powered vehicles.

KN BatteryChain is fully compliant with international dangerous goods regulations and certified against ISO9001.

It spans transportation by sea, air, rail and road from the manufacturer to the assembly line to warehousing for production logistics and aftermarkets as well as returns of used and faulty batteries from dealers.

Kuehne + Nagel International chief executive officer, Dr Detlef Trefzger says: “KN BatteryChain demonstrates Kuehne + Nagel’s leading role in global automotive logistics and our capability to anticipate industry trends from which we derive industry-specific solutions in time.”

“I am convinced that this innovative solution developed in close cooperation with our customers and partners will set industry standards for the supply chain along the entire battery life cycle and support our automotive customers and the aftermarket to grow their businesses.”

Government regulations to meet CO2 emission targets and increased customer demand encouraged by increased battery performance are driving up the worldwide production of battery electric vehicles, and the stock is expected to triple in five years, boosting demand for demand and production of lithium-ion batteries.

Large-format lithium batteries used for electric vehicles require a high level of handling detail and expertise to comply with international dangerous goods regulations and restrictions.

KN BatteryChain is specifically designed to offer safe, reliable and efficient mass transportation as well as storage of lithium cells and batteries.