Progress, Challenges and Opportunities of Recycling Electric Vehicle Batteries: A Systematic Review Article

Objective: To review progress of the recycling of electric vehicle batteries and prospects of it. Design: Review based on PRISMA 2020. Data sources: Scientific publications indexed in major databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect were searched for relevant studies published between 2020 and April 15, 2025. Inclusion criteria: Studies were included if they were published in English between 2020 and April 15, 2025, and focused on the recycling of electric vehicle batteries. Eligible studies specifically addressed (i) recycling methods, technologies, and material recovery processes for EV batteries; (ii) the impact of recycled battery systems on power generation processes and grid stability; and (iii) assessments of materials used in battery manufacturing, including efficiency and recyclability. Review articles and meta-analyses were excluded to ensure the inclusion of only original research data. Data extraction: One researcher independently screened all articles and extracted relevant data. A second researcher validated the accuracy of extracted data. The data were then organized and analyzed based on reported quantitative and qualitative indicators related to recycling methods, material recovery rates, environmental impact, and system-level energy benefits. Results: The review identified significant advancements in battery recycling technologies, particularly in hydrometallurgical and direct recycling methods. Material recovery rates for critical metals such as Li, Co, and Ni are improving, with implications for resource efficiency. Furthermore, recycled batteries show potential in stabilizing power grids through second-life applications in BESS. Conclusion: EV battery recycling represents a pivotal strategy in addressing raw material scarcity, reducing environmental burdens, and enhancing energy resilience. However, policy harmonization, technological scaling, and economic incentives remain key challenges for widespread implementation.