Stellantis is investing in a new electric-vehicle fuel cell option, striking a collaborative agreement with Zeta Energy Corp. to develop lithium-sulfur batteries. The financial and other terms of the collaboration were not announced, though Stellantis reported that the partners aim for production to begin by 2030.
The automaker emphasized the project’s goal is batteries that will be lighter than today’s standard lithium-ion batteries, with comparable energy values but greater vehicle range. The battery packs will be easier to handle and produced at a lower cost than Li-ion batteries, according to Stellantis.
Lighter and more compact EV batteries are emerging as an important design goal for vehicle designers and manufacturers. The new project’s objective is similar to rival General Motors’ recent foray into prismatic cell technology with joint-venture partner LG Energy Solution.
The Stellantis and Zeta Energy effort “is another step in helping advance our electrification strategy as we work to deliver clean, safe, and affordable vehicles,” stated Ned Curic, chief engineering and technology officer.
Zeta Energy Corp. is a Houston-based developer with more than 60 patents on its proprietary lithium-sulfur anode and cathode technology.
Stellantis explained that the Li-S batteries will be produced using waste materials and methane, in a process with lower CO2 emissions than current battery technologies. The Zeta battery technology is intended to be produced using existing gigafactory technology, and to rely on short, domestic supply chains either in North America or Europe.
According to Curic, “Groundbreaking battery technologies like lithium-sulfur can support Stellantis’ commitment to carbon neutrality by 2038 while ensuring our customers enjoy optimal range, performance, and affordability.”
