Sept 25 (Reuters) - Franco-Italian automaker Stellantis ( STLA )

and French nuclear fuels firm Orano have dropped

their planned joint venture to recycle electric car batteries,

both companies said on Wednesday.

The two companies had signed a memorandum of understanding

last year. The JV was to help recycle used electric vehicle

batteries and scrap materials from Stellantis ( STLA ) gigafactories in

Europe and North America, with production set to start in the

first part of 2026.

"Stellantis ( STLA ) and Orano will not finalize the intended joint

venture for recycling end-of-life electric vehicle batteries and

scrap," the companies said, adding they are exploring other

potential commercial relationships.

The deal would have given Stellantis ( STLA ), parent company of

brands including Peugeot, Fiat and Jeep, additional access to

the cobalt, nickel and lithium necessary for electrification and

the energy transition.