Sebang Lithium Battery, a subsidiary of South Korean battery maker Sebang Global Battery, is planning to build manufacturing facilities in the United States and Europe as it looks to expand its presence overseas. The company, which supplies lithium battery modules to Hyundai Motor Group, aims to capitalize on growing demand and diversify its global footprint.
In an interview on July 7, CEO Oh Heung-seop said the company expects to start operating the new plants “within the next two to three years.” He added, “The exact timeline may vary depending on global automakers’ order volumes and the pace of collaboration with major domestic battery cell makers, but local production must begin within that period.” He explained the goal is to establish regional supply chains that enable faster delivery and stronger operational support for global customers and partners.
Sebang Lithium Battery, established in September 2015, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sebang Global Battery, one of the world’s top 10 storage battery manufacturers. It specializes in lithium battery modules and has supplied products to Hyundai and Kia.
The company’s overseas push is underpinned by confidence in its technology. “Our core product, the 12V lithium battery module, is already installed in Hyundai and Kia vehicles and holds the No. 1 market share in its segment,” Oh said. He added that Sebang has completed development of a main 12V lithium battery module that can replace traditional lead-acid batteries, giving it a competitive edge in global markets.
Oh stressed that Sebang’s cost, quality, and supply chain are all on par with competitors, highlighting the company’s proprietary technology to prevent battery cell thermal runaway. “With strong technology as our foundation, we believe we can remain competitive in overseas markets,” he said.
He also pointed to U.S. policy shifts as a key factor driving the expansion. Despite tariff risks under former President Donald Trump, Oh sees opportunity in the U.S. market as many American firms that previously worked with Chinese partners now seek alternatives. “This change creates an important opportunity for Korean companies to expand their global presence,” he noted.
Sebang is also actively responding to changes in the automotive industry. The company has invested heavily in developing battery solutions for electric vehicles, focusing on processing battery cells into high-performance packs and systems that deliver both safety and cost efficiency.
Looking ahead, Sebang has developed a next-generation battery module designed to serve as a stable power source for software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
