/C O R R E C T I O N -- Princeton NuEnergy/

Rhea-AI Summary

Princeton NuEnergy (HMC) and Honda signed a memorandum of understanding on Jan 5, 2026 to advance collaboration on next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling technologies.

The MOU builds on joint technical validation since 2022 of PNE's plasma-based direct recycling and upcycling processes, which produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material with performance stated as comparable to virgin material. The framework targets collaborative validation projects and potential commercial-scale applications to strengthen a circular domestic supply chain.

In the news release, Honda and Princeton NuEnergy Sign MOU to Advance Collaboration in Next-Generation Battery Recycling Technologies, issued 05-Jan-2026 by Princeton NuEnergy over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end:

Honda and Princeton NuEnergy Sign MOU to Advance Collaboration in Next-Generation Battery Recycling Technologies

PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ("Honda") and Princeton NuEnergy Inc. ("PNE") today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance discussion on collaboration around next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling technologies. The agreement reflects the companies' shared intention to strengthen the circular battery materials supply chain and U.S energy independence through innovative recycling and rejuvenation pathways.

Since 2022, Honda and PNE have conducted joint technical validation of PNE's plasma-based Direct Recycling and Upcycling technologies for lithium-ion battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life materials. Through this work, PNE has produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material with performance characteristics comparable to virgin material, supporting Honda's long-term goals for resource circularity and electrification.

The MOU outlines a framework for a strategic partnership focused on collaborative validation projects and the potential for future commercial-scale applications. It reflects alignment between Honda's global electrification strategy and PNE's mission to expand cost-efficient production of battery-grade cathode active materials through a closed-loop platform.

Dr. Chao Yan, Co-Founder and CEO of Princeton NuEnergy, said: "Our work with Honda shows strong technical alignment and a clear pathway for advancing circular battery materials. This MOU reflects a shared commitment to accelerating the next phase of sustainable, high-performance material production, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration."

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.: "Honda values the progress achieved through our collaboration with PNE and recognizes the importance of advanced recycling technologies in building a more sustainable materials ecosystem. This MOU represents an important step forward in our efforts to advance long-term solutions that support our global electrification strategy."

This announcement follows the recent recognition of PNE's U.S. manufacturing expansion, including the "2025 Smart Move SC New Plant Award," which highlights the company's progress in strengthening domestic production of advanced battery materials while supporting U.S. critical minerals and energy-security objectives.

PNE's continued growth, combined with the expanded collaboration with Honda, puts the company in a great position to build a modern, circular, and domestic supply chain for lithium-ion battery materials that supports long-term industry resilience.

About Princeton NuEnergy, Inc.
PNE is an advanced materials manufacturer and the most cost-effective, energy- and capital-efficient U.S. producer of battery-grade cathode active material (CAM) for lithium-ion batteries. Built on a proprietary, closed-loop platform, PNE's high-performing technology spans multiple high-growth materials businesses, including Direct Recycling (Cathode-to-Cathode®), Advanced Black Mass™ production, and Upcycled CAM — strengthening the domestic battery supply chain and supporting U.S. energy independence and national security priorities.

About Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (NYSE: HMC)
Honda, driven by dreams, is a comprehensive mobility company that provides a wide range of mobility products including motorcycles, automobiles, and power products. In order to offer the "joy and freedom of mobility" through mobility to people around the world in a sustainable manner, Honda has set two 2050 targets: 1) to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in and 2) to achieve zero fatalities worldwide from traffic collisions involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles. Honda will strive to offer the "joy and freedom of mobility" in a sustainable manner by fully demonstrating its original ideas and technologies, and working together with many companies and organizations, transcending the boundaries of individual companies and industries.

Media Contact:
Arsalan Khan
Marketing Manager
Princeton NuEnergy
arsalan_khan@pnecycle.com

Correction: An earlier version of this release was updated to reflect updated multimedia.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/honda-and-princeton-nuenergy-sign-mou-to-advance-collaboration-in-next-generation-battery-recycling-technologies-302652247.html

SOURCE Princeton NuEnergy

FAQ

What did Honda and Princeton NuEnergy (HMC) announce on Jan 5, 2026?

They signed an MOU to advance collaboration on next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling and potential commercial-scale validation projects.

What recycling technology has Princeton NuEnergy been validating with Honda since 2022?

A plasma-based Direct Recycling and Upcycling technology that produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material reported as comparable to virgin material.

Does the MOU between Honda and Princeton NuEnergy (HMC) create a binding commercial agreement?

No; the MOU outlines a framework for collaboration and potential future commercial-scale applications but is not presented as a binding commercial contract.

How could the Honda–Princeton NuEnergy collaboration affect U.S. battery supply chains?

The companies intend to strengthen a circular, domestic supply chain for battery-grade cathode materials and support U.S. energy-security objectives.

What performance outcome did Princeton NuEnergy report for its rejuvenated cathode material?

PNE reported that rejuvenated NMC cathode active material demonstrated performance characteristics comparable to virgin material.

What recent recognition did Princeton NuEnergy receive related to U.S. manufacturing?

Princeton NuEnergy received the “2025 Smart Move SC New Plant Award,” noted as recognition of U.S. manufacturing expansion.