Airbus has invested in US-based battery technology company Amprius. Amprius will direct the funding to its new batteries based on silicon nanowire anode technology, supporting the development of higher-volume production capacity and higher energy density cells. Airbus aerospace programs such as Zephyr High Altitude Pseudo Satellite and Urban Air Mobility stand to benefit from improved battery technology.

In 2013, Amprius introduced lithium-ion batteries with 100% silicon anodes. The company’s current products include a 100% silicon nanowire anode, silicon-graphite composite anodes, lithium-rich cathodes, and high voltage electrolytes for silicon.

Jana Rosenmann, Head of Airbus Unmanned Aerial Systems, said, “This partnership reinforces the link between the newest generation batteries on 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.”

Jon Bornstein, COO of Amprius, said, “The incorporation of Amprius’s 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.”

Source: Airbus