Stellantis N.V. and Zeta Energy Corp. have announced a joint development agreement to advance battery cell technology for electric vehicles. Their collaboration focuses on developing lithium-sulfur EV batteries that offer groundbreaking gravimetric energy density while maintaining a volumetric energy density similar to that of current lithium-ion batteries.
This innovation could result in significantly lighter battery packs, providing the same energy capacity as today’s lithium-ion batteries, leading to enhanced range, performance, and handling. Additionally, the new technology could reduce fast-charging times by up to 50%, improving the convenience of EV ownership. Lithium-sulfur batteries are also expected to be less than half the cost per kWh compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
“Our collaboration with Zeta Energy is another step in helping advance our electrification strategy as we work to deliver clean, safe and affordable vehicles,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “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.”
“We are very excited to be working with Stellantis on this project,” said Tom Pilette, CEO of Zeta Energy. “The combination of Zeta Energy’s lithium-sulfur battery technology with Stellantis’ unrivaled expertise in innovation, global manufacturing and distribution can dramatically improve the performance and cost profile of electric vehicles while increasing the supply chain resiliency for batteries and EVs.
The batteries will be produced using waste materials and methane, resulting in significantly lower CO2 emissions compared to existing battery technologies. Zeta Energy’s battery technology is designed to be compatible with current gigafactory manufacturing processes and would rely on a short, entirely domestic supply chain in Europe or North America.
The collaboration covers both pre-production development and future production planning. Once the project is complete, these batteries are expected to power Stellantis electric vehicles by 2030.
Lithium-sulfur battery technology offers superior performance at a lower cost than traditional lithium-ion batteries. Sulfur, a widely available and cost-effective material, helps reduce production costs and supply-chain risks. Zeta Energy’s lithium-sulfur batteries are made using waste materials, methane, and unrefined sulfur—a byproduct from various industries—eliminating the need for cobalt, graphite, manganese, or nickel.
This collaboration aligns with Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategy, which aims to deliver more than 75 battery electric vehicle models. As part of its approach, Stellantis is exploring innovative battery cell and pack technologies while pursuing a dual-chemistry strategy to meet diverse customer needs.
