Chinese technology company Horizon and thin-film technology specialist Leonhard Kurz have announced the formation of a joint venture, Horizon-Kurz New Material Technology GmbH. Established on April 17, 2025, and based in Fürth, Germany, the new entity leverages the expertise of both companies to develop and manufacture high-performance coating solutions for separator films used in lithium-ion batteries. This collaboration aims to enhance the safety, lifespan, and overall performance of lithium-ion batteries, particularly for the growing electromobility sector in Europe.
Lithium-ion batteries are integral to a wide range of applications, including smartphones, stationary energy storage systems, and electric vehicles, due to their high energy density and long service life. To support the European Union’s push for regional supply chains, Horizon-Kurz New Material Technology is strategically positioned to relocate key production steps to Europe. The company combines Kurz’s extensive experience in thin-film technology and automotive expertise with Horizon’s market insights and technological capabilities to deliver efficient, sustainable, and reliable ceramic coatings.
Separator films play a crucial role in lithium-ion batteries by separating the anode and cathode while allowing ion permeability, which is essential for battery performance and safety. The targeted coatings developed by the joint venture are designed to significantly improve thermal stability, mechanical strength, and overall battery performance without hindering ion mobility. This advancement is expected to contribute to the development of a new generation of safer and higher-performing batteries.
“With the new company and Horizon as the majority partner, we are tapping into a highly dynamic market segment with enormous future potential,” says Rainer Süßmann, Executive Senior Vice President of the Business Area Plastic Decoration at Kurz and Managing Director of Horizon-Kurz New Material. “Our expertise in developing and implementing functional coatings complements Horizon’s market insight and technological know-how. Together, we are laying the foundation for more efficient and safer batteries.”
Horizon also sees the partnership as a strategically important step. Xinkun Shi, CEO at Horizon and Managing Director of Horizon-Kurz New Material, emphasizes: “With Kurz, we have a strong partner that has been delivering innovative solutions in functional surface design for decades. Together, we are setting new standards for separator coatings and driving the advancement of high-performance battery cells.”
The joint venture emphasizes sustainable and precise coating processes made in Europe, ensuring high supply security and adherence to strict quality and environmental standards. Horizon-Kurz New Material Technology focuses on minimizing material use and optimizing resource-efficient processes, making their coated films suitable for various cell formats, including cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch cells. This versatility is particularly advantageous for the electromobility market.
The establishment of Horizon-Kurz New Material Technology GmbH underscores a commitment to innovation, regional development, and strengthening European value chains in the battery technology sector.
Source: Kurz USA
