CATL Debrecen starts trial production in new cell building
- Trial production on the first two cell production lines began on 22 September 2026.
- Occupancy permit was issued in August 2026 and IPPC preconditions were completed before the trial run.
- CATL has produced 537,000 battery modules in Debrecen since module manufacturing began in autumn 2024.
- The completed Debrecen complex is planned to reach 100 GWh capacity and will be CATL's largest base outside China once fully operational.
Trial production launched
CATL began trial production in its newly built cell factory in Debrecen on 22 September 2026. The trial run on the first two production lines aims to set up, optimise and validate production equipment and manufacturing processes ahead of series production.
Permits and inspections
The first cell building was equipped by spring 2026 and the occupancy permit was granted in August 2026. CATL completed all pre-conditions required by its IPPC permit prior to starting trial operations. Hajdú-Bihar County Government Office inspectors confirmed that previously identified deficiencies had been resolved following regular on-site checks.
Current output and future capacity
Module manufacturing in Debrecen has been ongoing since autumn 2024, with 537,000 modules produced to date. Once all facilities are ready, the Hungarian plant is planned to reach 100 GWh capacity and become CATL's largest manufacturing base outside China, supplying leading European automakers.
Compliance and oversight
CATL states it will continue cooperating with government authorities, prioritise employee health and safety, and monitor environmental and safety metrics during the trial, submitting results to the authority as required.
Source: CATL