PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 5, 2026 — Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (“Honda”) and Princeton NuEnergy Inc. (“PNE”) announced today the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to further the discussion on cooperation regarding next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling technologies. The agreement shows the companies’ common intention to enhance the circular battery materials supply chain and U.S. energy independence via innovative recycling and rejuvenation paths.

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

The MOU outlines a framework for a strategic partnership centered on collaborative validation projects and the potential for future commercial-scale applications. It reflects the alignment between Honda’s global electrification strategy and PNE’s mission to expand cost-effective 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 demonstrates strong technical alignment and a clear path for advancing circular battery materials. This MOU reflects a shared dedication to accelerating the next stage of sustainable, high-performance material production, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration.”

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.: “Honda values the progress made through our collaboration with PNE and acknowledges the importance of advanced recycling technologies in building a more sustainable materials ecosystem. This MOU represents an important step forward in our efforts to develop 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 continuous growth, combined with the expanded cooperation with Honda, positions the company well 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. Based on a proprietary, closed-loop platform, PNE’s high-performing technology covers 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, inspired by dreams, is a comprehensive mobility company that offers a wide range of mobility products such as motorcycles, automobiles, and power products. To offer the “joy and freedom of mobility” through mobility to people worldwide in a sustainable way, Honda has set two 2050 targets: 1) to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in and 2) to reach zero fatalities globally 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 showcasing its original ideas and technologies, and collaborating with many companies and organizations, transcending the boundaries of individual companies and industries.

Media Contact:
Arsalan Khan
Marketing Manager
Princeton NuEnergy

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SOURCE Princeton NuEnergy