UPDATE: China is facing an urgent crisis as the country’s rapid electric vehicle (EV) boom leads to a staggering challenge in battery disposal. By 2030, approximately 7 million tons of EV batteries are projected to reach the end of their life cycle, raising significant environmental and public health concerns.
The swift adoption of electric vehicles in China has outpaced the development of an adequate recycling infrastructure. In November 2025, nearly 60% of new car sales in China were electric, showcasing the overwhelming popularity of EVs. However, as older models degrade and become obsolete, many drivers are now grappling with the consequences of battery disposal.
According to MIT Technology Review, the unregulated recycling market is exploiting this situation. Many recyclers bypass government regulations, offering higher prices for old batteries only to repackage and resell them as “new” battery packs. This practice not only deceives consumers but also poses a dangerous fire risk due to improper handling of degraded batteries.
Moreover, when batteries are beyond reuse, they are often crushed and sold as raw metals, contributing to hazardous environmental conditions. Leaking chemicals and contaminated wastewater from these operations threaten both public health and the environment.
Chinese authorities are now under pressure to address this “old battery” problem. While many larger automakers offer recycling services, the scale of EV retirements in the coming years demands a broader and more effective recycling system. The industry agrees that manufacturers must take the lead in developing safe and efficient battery recycling practices.
As this situation unfolds, international automakers are closely monitoring developments in China, eager to learn valuable lessons about managing the lifecycle of electric vehicle batteries. The urgency for a sustainable solution is palpable, as the world watches to see how China tackles this critical issue.
With the potential for a battery crisis looming, the call for robust recycling measures has never been more pressing. The future of electric vehicles hinges not only on their adoption but also on how effectively their batteries are managed once they retire.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and its implications for global EV markets.
