SAE International standard addresses EV battery supply chain transparency

SAE International announced the release of J3327 Surface Vehicle EV Battery Global Traceability standard, establishing the first industry-wide framework for documenting the journey of critical minerals from extraction, manufacturing, use, and end of life. Developed by SAE’s Battery Global Traceability Committee, the standard addresses urgent industry needs for consistent, reliable traceability practices to meet rising compliance requirements, reduce inefficiencies, and support reuse and recycling.

“The global transition towards electric mobility and renewable energy storage has intensified the need for a transparent and responsible battery supply chain,” states Christian Thiele, senior director, global ground vehicle standards, SAE International. “The SAE Battery Global Traceability Committee recognizes this imperative and has developed a comprehensive standard, SAE J3327, through identifying mineral sourcing and the traceability chain throughout the manufacturing cycle. This will drive sustainability, compliance, and interoperability across the entire battery lifecycle.”

“This framework for an Electric Vehicle Battery Traceability Record, SAE J3327, establishes a foundation for transparent, consistent identification of critical mineral sourcing and chain of custody during processing and manufacturing of EV Batteries,” says Frank Menchaca, circular economy leader, Li-Bridge and SAE Battery Global Traceability Committee chair. “It provides a consistent approach that will save companies time and money while enabling recycling and safe end-of-life processing.”

SAE J3327 harmonizes with international supply chain standards, including ISO protocols and the EU’s Digital Product Passport for batteries, to ensure global interoperability. The document:

• Establishes a comprehensive traceability framework for battery materials from mining through manufacturing.
• Provides a consistent approach aligned with existing international requirements.
• Enhances verification and security, helping prevent falsified country-of-origin claims and reducing risks to battery management systems.