The DOE has announced $59 million in new funding for research on advanced vehicle technologies, including advanced batteries, electric drive systems and materials for more efficient powertrains. Funding opportunities fall within six topic areas. Those directly related to EVs include:

• Solid State Batteries – Up to $12.5 million available for projects aimed at developing new solid electrolytes. Projects should address materials challenges and support next-generation chemistries that reduce costs and improve cycle life and energy densities.

• Electric Motor Research – Up to $3.5 million available for projects aimed at new materials and designs to decrease the size and increase the power density of electric drive systems by a factor of eight. Projects should reduce costs and improve performance of electric drive systems.

• Technology Integration – Up to $17.5 million available for projects that focus on alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructures, including collection of EV data and new mobility services in rural areas.

DOE Under Secretary Mark W. Menezes said, “Through this funding opportunity, we are looking to partner with the best and brightest minds across the country to drive early-stage R&D for vehicle technologies forward, so that all Americans can access more affordable, secure, and reliable transportation.”

Source: DOE via Green Car Congress