# CATL starts trial operations at its Debrecen cell plant in Hungary

Canonical page: https://technooptimist.io/stories/catl-starts-trial-operations-at-its-debrecen-cell-plant-in-hungary-56f5647a
Date: 22 Sep 2026
About: [CATL](https://technooptimist.io/companies/catl.md)
Original source: https://www.catl.com/en/news/7000.html

CATL has started trial operations on the first two production lines of its new cell factory in Debrecen, Hungary. Trial running is the step before series production; the plant will supply European carmakers that have built large EV capacity in Hungary. Once all facilities are ready, the site is planned at 100 GWh.

## Key facts

- The occupancy permit was obtained in August 2026; trial operations began on September 22, 2026.
- CATL calls the 100 GWh site its largest manufacturing base outside China; it is the company's second European battery plant.
- Trial runs are used to set up, tune and validate equipment and processes; health, safety and environmental results will be reported to the authorities.
- The article gives no investment amount, jobs figure or cell chemistry.

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