American Battery Technology (NASDAQ:ABAT) surges 8.01% on pre-feasibility study completion and EPA approval

American Battery Technology (NASDAQ:ABAT) surged 8.0092% in pre-market trading on January 8, 2026, signaling strong investor confidence ahead of the regular session.

The rally follows the company’s recent completion of a pre-feasibility study for its Tonopah Flats lithium project, one of the largest lithium resources in the U.S., and its EPA approval for a $30 million lithium-ion battery recycling initiative. These developments underscore progress in scaling critical mineral extraction and sustainable battery recycling operations, aligning with growing demand for clean energy infrastructure.

Additionally, CEO Ryan Melsert’s participation in the IEA Energy Innovation Forum highlighted the firm’s strategic positioning in global energy transitions. A recent 16.67% price target increase to $7.14 further reinforced optimism, though legal investigations into past fraud allegations remain unresolved.

Analysts are now reevaluating long-term growth projections for ABAT, noting the company's alignment with U.S. Department of Energy clean energy goals and its capacity to reduce reliance on foreign mineral imports. The firm has also secured key partnerships with automotive manufacturers exploring next-generation battery technologies, potentially increasing its market relevance in the coming years.