Airbus Defence and Space has partnered with U.S. based Amprius to help boost the development of new generation batteries based on Silicon Nanowire Anode technology.
Airbus Defence and Space says their investment will help drive the development of higher volume production capacity along with higher energy density cells for their aerospace programs, including the Zephyr High Altitude Pseudo Satellite and Urban Air Mobility innovation initiatives.
“This partnership re-inforces the link between two market leaders, the newest generation batteries of the market matched with the most advanced HAPS program. Zephyr is currently the only one operating in the stratosphere at an average altitude of 70,000 and running exclusively on solar power, providing persistent local satellite-like services and supporting a wide range of applications and tasks,” says Jana Rosenmann, head of Airbus Unmanned Aerial Systems.
The first to introduce 100% silicon anodes in lithium ion batteries to the market in 2013, Amprius manufactures high energy density commercial batteries. The company’s products and technology platforms include a 100% silicon nanowire anode, silicon-graphite composite anodes, lithium-rich cathodes and high voltage electrolytes tailored for silicon.
“We are extremely pleased to be working with Airbus and supplying batteries for the Zephyr program,” said Jon Bornstein, COO of Amprius. “The incorporation of Amprius’ 100% silicon nanowire anode-based lithium ion batteries into the Zephyr platform represents an important validation of this technology. Likewise, our development of high energy power cells for Urban Air Mobility will enable exciting opportunities in new aviation markets.”