Life after use: circular supply chains for second-life of electric vehicle batteries

Despite the increasing interest in second-life of electric vehicle batteries, the characteristics of supply chains to support such products are yet to be developed. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key supply chain characteristics required to effectively accommodate circular models for second-life electric vehicle batteries. Through a longitudinal case study, we map possible application areas and customer segments, necessary key activities, and potential actors that might emerge in future supply chains for these products. The findings are discussed in relation to product-oriented, use-oriented, and result-oriented circular models. The suggested circular models and their comparisons provide insights into how different supply chain dimensions are configured for different circular business models, and the advantages, disadvantages, and prerequisites associated by each model.