Amprius Technologies has developed a next-generation cell that is said to benefit electric mobility with high levels of power and energy efficiency.
FREMONT, Calif.—A new ultra-high-power, high-energy lithium-ion battery from Amprius Technologies, Inc., is reported to achieve a discharge rate of 10C while delivering 400 Wh/kg energy density, according to a release from Amprius Technologies.
Amprius described the cell, which leverages the company’s advanced material system capability, as “a major advancement for electric aviation, encompassing both crewed and uncrewed aerial systems.” The cell’s high power output is said to offer benefits to the electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industries, by providing high propulsion power and energy to meet the rigorous demands during takeoff, cruise, and landing.
The battery reportedly extends flight range by as much as 50 percent and increases payload capacity. Its capabilities extend to high-performance EVs, potentially enabling them to achieve 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) acceleration below 1.5 seconds, the company said in the release.
“Commercial opportunities in electric mobility are profoundly impacted by their power and energy requirements,” said Amprius Technologies Chief Executive Officer Kang Sun, Ph.D., in the release. “Our new cell delivers impressive specific power and energy density performance, approximately 200 percent higher than traditional graphite cells, while achieving a 10C discharge rate, significantly expanding application possibilities and driving cost-effectiveness.”
With a power density of 3500 W/kg in standard discharge conditions and a maximum power exceeding 4400 W/kg at lower depths-of-discharge, the cell’s usable discharge capability is extended, according to Amprius. It supports high current pulses at low states of charge without going below the lower cut-off voltage, namely 3000 W/kg at 30 percent depths-of-discharge. The combination of high energy density and high power density reduces battery weight and volume, leading to extended range, reduced charging frequency, and lower operating costs, the company said.
The new ultra-high-power cell is also said to provide “an ultra-fast charging (UFC) capability, reaching 80 percent charge in approximately six minutes or less,” according to Amprius. This is said to transform mission-critical operations with swift turnaround times.
Amprius said it expects to have samples of the cell available for customers by the end of 2023. Commercialization of the new cells is slated for early 2024.