Fill out the form
Official call identifier: HORIZON-CL5-2026-10-D2-03
Objective of the call
This call aims to scale up next-generation lithium-based batteries for mobility applications, moving from prototype level to pilot manufacturing and system-level demonstration.
It supports the development of integrated production processes, advanced cell design and module/pack integration to strengthen EU competitiveness and reinforce the European battery value chain.
The topic contributes to the co-programmed European Partnerships Batt4EU and Made in Europe, as well as the industrial action plan for the automotive sector.
Scope of activities
Projects must focus on one specific transport mode: Automotive, Aviation, Rail or Waterborne. The selected mode must be clearly indicated in the proposal.
Proposals must cover the full production chain from advanced cell concepts to system integration and demonstration, including:
- Upscaling of next-generation lithium-based battery components (beyond generation 3), such as semi-solid or all-solid-state technologies, from TRL 4–5 to scalable production
- Optimisation and pilot-scale integration of anode and cathode materials compatible with next-generation electrolytes
- Development of advanced manufacturing equipment and high-throughput processing methods (e.g. laser patterning, vacuum sintering, advanced calendaring, high-precision stacking, solid electrolyte deposition tools)
- Design and demonstration of battery modules and packs integrated into vehicles or relevant operational environments
- Development of sensors and Battery Management Systems (BMS) adapted to the specific application
- Comprehensive validation under realistic operational conditions, including performance, durability and safety testing
Projects must define appropriate KPIs at cell and system level, including energy density (gravimetric and volumetric), power density, C-rate, cycle life and cost under operational conditions.
For aviation applications, battery requirements must be compatible at minimum with EASA CS.23 (level 4) and CS.27, and preferably CS.25.
The Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework should be considered as a reference.
Eligible applicants
- Innovative SMEs, startups and enterprises aiming to scale and strengthen competitiveness
- Public-sector organisations driving transformation and societal impact
- Research and academic institutions commercialising knowledge
- Non-profit organisations delivering purpose-driven innovation
- Organisations based in EU Member States, EFTA/EEA, or Associated Countries (described in General Annex A, General Annex B, General Annex C)
- Minimum 3 independent partners from 3 eligible countries
Specific consortium we are looking for:
- Battery cell manufacturers and system integrators
- Automotive, aviation, rail or waterborne transport manufacturers
- Advanced materials developers (anode, cathode, electrolyte)
- Manufacturing equipment and automation providers
- SMEs active in battery production technologies and supply chain development
- Research and technology organisations specialised in battery engineering and validation
Participation of actors across the battery value chain is expected to ensure scalable production and industrial deployment.
The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as beneficiary with zero funding or as associated partner.
Eligible costs
Eligible costs follow standard Horizon Europe Innovation Action (IA) rules and may include:
- Personnel and pilot production development
- Manufacturing equipment and process automation
- Prototype development and system integration
- Testing, validation and certification activities
- Supply chain development
- Exploitation, scalability and commercialisation planning
The exploitation plan must include preliminary strategies for scalability, commercialisation and deployment, including potential funding sources such as the Innovation Fund.
Funding conditions
Type of action:
Innovation Action (IA)
Funding rate:
70% of eligible costs (except for non-profit legal entities, where a rate of up to 100% applies)
EU contribution per project:
Around EUR 33 million
Number of funded projects:
3 projects
Project duration:
Typically 36 months
Technology Readiness Level (TRL):
From TRL 4–5 at start to demonstration of scalable production and system integration
*Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) describe the maturity of a technology, from basic research (TRL 1) to fully deployed, market-ready solutions (TRL 9).
Deadline for submission
8 October 2026