TitleLG Energy Solution Launches Battery Production in LansingPublication Date2026-08-19SectorBattery & Cell ProductionDescription LG Energy Solution has launched battery production at its Lansing, Michigan plant, which now produces both LFP cells for Tesla's stationary storage systems and NMC cells for Toyota's electric vehicles. Originally meant as a joint venture with GM, the plant is now wholly owned by LGES after GM sold its stake in 2025. The site has a projected annual capacity of over 35 GWh and employs around 900 people, with plans to expand. This diversification allows LGES to serve multiple markets and reduces dependence on any single automaker. Read Full Article
TitleU.S. Navy Awards Packet Digital $9.8 Million to Scale Drone Battery Production in North DakotaPublication Date2026-05-06SectorDrones - Unmanned Systems & Autonomous VehiclesDescription The U.S. Navy awarded $9.8 million to expand domestic battery production for drones and unmanned systems. The funding supports scaling lithium-ion battery manufacturing in North Dakota for defense and logistics UAVs. This initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S. supply chains for critical drone components. It highlights growing investment in infrastructure supporting unmanned technologies Read Full Article
TitleLGES Lands Major Cylindrical Cell Order, Likely Tied to BMWPublication Date2026-05-03SectorBattery & Cell ProductionDescription LG Energy Solution (LGES) has secured a major order of over 100 GWh for its large 46-series cylindrical battery cells, reportedly from BMW, adding to its total order backlog of over 440 GWh. Production of these cells will take place in both Korea and the US, with the Arizona plant supplying batteries to BMW’s US operations and supporting models such as the iX3, i3, i7, and future electric X5. As LGES noted, “stable shipments of cylindrical EV batteries and active response to growing North American ESS demand through capacity expansion resulted in a slight quarter-on-quarter increase in the revenue.” Read Full Article
TitleThe Ecosystem Effect: Why Battery Companies Are Betting Billions on North CarolinaPublication Date2026-05-03SectorBattery & Cell ProductionDescription Toyota's decision to build and continually expand its battery manufacturing facility in North Carolina has sparked a wave of investments, creating an advanced manufacturing ecosystem that now totals $20 billion and employs nearly 250,000 people in the state. This growth is fueled by North Carolina's skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, abundant natural resources like lithium, and strong collaboration between industry, education, and government. As a result, the state has transformed into a leading hub for battery manufacturing and innovation, positioning itself for long-term success in the global energy storage industry. Read Full Article
TitleHyundai Motor Launches Battery Subscription Plan to Reduce EV Purchase CostsPublication Date2026-04-29SectorBattery & Cell ProductionDescription Hyundai is launching a pilot program that lets corporate taxi operators pay a monthly subscription for EV batteries, rather than buying them outright, to lower upfront costs and address battery replacement concerns. The initiative, enabled by a new regulatory exemption, will begin with five Ioniq 5 taxis in Seoul and could extend the lifespan and value of EVs by separating battery and vehicle ownership. Hyundai plans to expand this battery subscription model to general consumers and the broader market, aiming to make EV ownership more affordable and support cleaner transportation. Read Full Article
TitleBattery Management System Lithium Ion Trends in 2025: AI Integration and Global Market DemandsPublication Date2026-04-17SectorBattery SafetyDescription Artificial intelligence is being integrated into battery management systems to improve safety and reliability. These systems monitor voltage, temperature, and current in real time to detect anomalies and predict potential failures. By identifying risks early, AI-based safety systems help prevent battery fires and extend lifespan. This technology is becoming critical for electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage. Read Full Article
TitleSafer Sodium Battery Eliminates Thermal Runaway With a Heat-triggered Polymer BarrierPublication Date2026-04-08SectorBattery SafetyDescription Researchers developed a polymerizable nonflammable electrolyte that forms a protective barrier at high temperatures, helping prevent thermal runaway—one of the biggest safety risks in batteries. Read Full Article
TitleSAE Technical Standards Offer Broad Support of Battery AdvancementPublication Date2026-04-07SectorBattery R&D and Next-Generation BatteriesDescription SAE International develops and maintains technical standards that are crucial for the advancement of battery technology, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs). These standards ensure safety, performance, and interoperability across the industry, fostering global adoption. As the EV market expands, SAE’s guidelines help manufacturers meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. The organization collaborates with industry leaders, governments, and researchers to address emerging challenges and promote innovation. Ultimately, SAE’s efforts support the reliable and sustainable growth of battery-powered transportation worldwide. Read Full Article
TitleWhat the 6th Edition of UL 9540A Means for Battery Storage Safety CertificationPublication Date2026-04-06SectorBattery SafetyDescription Updated UL 9540A standards introduce large-scale fire testing for battery energy storage systems. The changes address thermal runaway risks and system-level safety. Regulators and engineers use these standards to improve reliability. The update reflects growing focus on battery safety at scale. Read Full Article
TitleSolid-state EV Batteries Are Coming Sooner Than Expected After Another BreakthroughPublication Date2026-04-05SectorBattery & Cell ProductionDescription A major breakthrough saw A-sample solid-state battery cells roll off production lines, signaling movement from lab testing toward large-scale manufacturing and commercialization. Read Full Article
TitleEnd-of-life Batteries Yield Next-generation Cathode Under Mild Conditions, With 95% ReusePublication Date2026-02-02SectorCathode Active Materials - CAMDescription Researchers developed a process that recycles old batteries into high-value cathodes with over 95% material reuse and improved energy density. Read Full Article
TitleWhat’s Next for EV Batteries in 2026Publication Date2026-02-02SectorCathode Active Materials - CAMDescription New cathode materials and battery chemistries are emerging as key enablers of next-generation batteries. Researchers are exploring alternatives to improve cost and performance. These materials are critical for increasing energy density and safety. The work is shaping future EV battery designs. Read Full Article
TitleSAE Industry Technologies Consortia and Joint Office of Energy and Transportation Advance Universal Plug & ChargePublication Date2024-12-04SectorBattery Charging and InfrastructureDescription SAE International and industry partners have introduced a universal Plug & Charge framework for electric vehicles (EVs). This system will allow EV drivers to securely and easily charge their vehicles at any public station, regardless of manufacturer or network. The framework is designed to enhance convenience and security by enabling automatic vehicle-to-charger authentication and payment. Implementation is targeted for 2025, aiming to accelerate EV adoption and improve the user experience. SAE’s initiative marks a major step towards a more unified and interoperable EV charging infrastructure. Read Full Article