by Michael Willoughby
Airbus Defence and Space has partnered with U.S. based
Amprius’s current equity funding. This financing will further boost the development of new
generation batteries based on Silicon Nanowire Anode technology.
Airbus Defence and Space’s investment will help drive the development of higher volume
production capacity along with higher energy density cells for Airbus Defence and Space
aerospace programmes, 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 programme. 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.” said 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 the highest energy density commercial batteries in the industry. 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.”
Amprius’s high energy density batteries are used for smartphones, wearables, drones,
robotics, aerospace vehicles, electrical transportation, and military equipment.
Zephyr is the world’s leading, solar–electric, stratospheric Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). It
will bring new see, sense and connect capabilities to both commercial and military
customers. Zephyr will provide the potential to revolutionise disaster management, including
monitoring the spread of wildfires or oil spills.
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