A company that makes materials for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles has confirmed plans to establish operations in Windsor.

NEO Battery Materials Ltd. is an Ontario-based business that develops low-cost, high-capacity silicon anode materials, according to a news release from Invest WindsorEssex and the City of Windsor.

“Today’s announcement is a testament to Windsor’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and leadership in the automotive and EV industries,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, chair of Invest WindsorEssex.

“NEO Battery Materials’ decision to invest in our city highlights our ability to attract forward-thinking companies that drive innovation and create opportunities for our community.”

The company will employ more than 100 people when fully operational and will directly contribute to the region’s EV supply chain, Invest WindsorEssex said. 

It will initially invest $69 million in the 87,000 square-foot facility to be located on three hectares of surplus land at the Windsor International Airport.

It plans for future phased expansion with investment totalling approximately $120 million over eight years.

NEO’s silicon anode material enables longer-lasting lithium-ion batteries with a significant increase in EV driving range while enabling ultra-fast charging capabilities – all at lower costs, according to the company’s website. 

It has chosen to locate in Windsor-Essex because “the region’s strategic cross-border location, highly skilled workforce and rapidly growing EV supply chain expands NEO Battery Materials’ supplier capabilities and opportunities,” Invest WindsorEssex said.

The company will also be partnering with the University of Windsor.

Windsor city council approved in principle a grant to support its establishment in the city.

More to come.