Stellantis and Zeta Energy Forge Ahead with Innovative Lithium-Sulfur EV Battery Technology
Stellantis N.V. and Zeta Energy Corp. have announced a joint development agreement to advance battery cell technology for electric vehicle (EV) applications. This partnership focuses on developing lithium-sulfur EV batteries that boast groundbreaking gravimetric energy density and a volumetric energy density that matches current lithium-ion technology.
For consumers, this means a significantly lighter battery pack providing the same usable energy as today’s lithium-ion batteries, which could enhance vehicle range, handling, and performance. Additionally, this technology could increase fast-charging speeds by up to 50%, making EV ownership more convenient. Lithium-sulfur batteries are also expected to cost less than half per kWh compared to existing lithium-ion batteries.
“Our collaboration with Zeta Energy is a crucial step forward in advancing our electrification strategy as we strive to deliver clean, safe, and affordable vehicles,” commented Ned Curic, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer at Stellantis. “Innovative battery technologies like lithium-sulfur are pivotal to Stellantis’ commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2038 while ensuring optimal range, performance, and affordability for our customers.”
Tom Pilette, CEO of Zeta Energy, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to work alongside Stellantis on this project. By integrating Zeta Energy’s state-of-the-art lithium-sulfur battery technology with Stellantis’ unparalleled expertise in innovation, global manufacturing, and distribution, we can dramatically enhance the performance a’ performance and cost profile whilst bolstering the resilience of the battery supply chain.”
The batteries will be manufactured using waste materials and methane, significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to current battery technologies. Zeta Energy’s battery production is intended to be compatible with existing gigafactory setups and will utilise a short, entirely domestic supply chain in Europe or North America.
The collaboration encompasses both pre-production development and planning for future production. Upon completion of the project, the batteries will power Stellantis electric vehicles by 2030.
Lithium-sulfur battery technology delivers enhanced performance at a reduced cost relative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Using widely available and economical sulfur reduces both production costs and supply-chain risks. Zeta Energy’s lithium-sulfur batteries employ waste materials and unrefined sulfur, a byproduct from various industries, and do not require cobalt, graphite, manganese, or nickel.
Developing high-performing and cost-effective EVs is a key component of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, which includes launching more than 75 battery electric vehicle models. Stellantis employs a dual-chemistry approach to cater to all customer needs and actively explores innovative battery cell and pack technologies.