Amprius Technologies, Inc. has developed lithium-ion batteries with its Silicon Anode Platform which could increase the range of UAVs by up to 50%.

The cell achieves a discharge rate of 10C while delivering 400 Wh/kg energy density, which the company says will deliver a major advancement for electric aviation encompassing both crewed and uncrewed aerial systems - a market projected to be collectively over $49 billion USD by 2025.

The cell's power output brings benefits to the electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft and UAV industries, providing propulsion power and energy to meet the rigorous demands during takeoff, cruise and landing. It extends flight range by as much as 50% and increases payload capacity.

“Commercial opportunities in electric mobility are profoundly impacted by their power and energy requirements,” says Dr. Kang Sun, Chief Executive Officer of Amprius. “Our new cell delivers impressive specific power and energy density performance, approximately 200% higher than traditional graphite cells, while achieving a 10C discharge rate, significantly expanding application possibilities and driving cost-effectiveness.”

With a power density of 3,500 W/kg in standard discharge conditions and a maximum power exceeding 4,400 W/kg at lower depths-of-discharge, the cell's usable discharge capability is extended. It supports high current pulses at low states of charge without going below the lower cut-off voltage, namely 3,000 W/kg at 30% 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.

In addition, the cell boasts an ultra-fast charging capability, reaching 80 per cent charge in approximately six minutes or less, transforming mission-critical operations with swift turnaround times.

Amprius expects to have samples of this cell available for customers by the end of 2023 with the commercialization of the new cells slated for early 2024.