# CATL battery operations in Debrecen, Hungary

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/catl-battery-operations-in-debrecen-hungary
> Updated: 2026-09-28T00:06:07.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 3.

CATL is expanding its industrial footprint in Debrecen, Hungary, through two distinct operational developments.

A subsidiary, GreenPower Energy Debrecen Kft., is preparing to launch an automated facility in late October 2026. Located in the Debrecen Southern Industrial Park, this 44,000-square-meter site will focus on assembly, repackaging, machining, and logistics to support regional operations. The facility will utilize advanced automation and is expected to employ over 90 people once permits are secured.

Simultaneously, CATL’s primary battery cell manufacturing plant has reached a significant milestone. On September 22, 2026, the facility commenced trial cell production on two production lines. This phase is intended to optimize manufacturing processes, validate equipment, and establish production parameters before transitioning to full-scale mass production. The testing phase aims to verify quality, safety, and stability standards.

The plant, which has been under construction since summer 2023, is intended to become the company’s largest production base outside of China, with a projected annual capacity of 100 GWh. While the site has been producing battery modules since autumn 2024, the shift to cell manufacturing represents a significant step in bringing more of the battery value chain to Europe. The total project value is estimated at approximately €7.3 billion. The facility aims to provide local cells to major automakers including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Stellantis.

Following inspections by the Hajdú-Bihar County Government Office to address local resident concerns, regulators confirmed that all identified deficiencies were resolved. Having secured necessary occupancy and Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) permits, the site is positioned to serve as a strategic hub for the European electric vehicle supply chain.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-28: CATL begins test production of battery cells in Debrecen

CATL has started test production of battery cells in Debrecen, Hungary, marking a major step toward its goal of a 100 GWh annual capacity at its largest production base outside China.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catl-begins-test-production-of-battery-cells-in-debrecen

### 2026-09-22: CATL begins trial battery cell production at Hungary plant

CATL has started trial battery cell production at its new 100 GWh facility in Debrecen, Hungary, to supply European automakers.

19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catl-begins-trial-production-in-hungary-and-targets-us-pickup-market

### 2026-09-03: CATL subsidiary to launch automated facility in Debrecen

CATL subsidiary GreenPower Energy Debrecen Kft. will launch a 44,000-square-meter automated facility in Debrecen in late October 2026, focusing on battery assembly, logistics, and repairs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catl-subsidiary-to-launch-automated-facility-in-debrecen

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Cite as: CATL battery operations in Debrecen, Hungary. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/catl-battery-operations-in-debrecen-hungary