WHY THIS MATTERS IN BRIEF
Being able to 3D print batteries means you can increase the surface are of the anodes and cathodes to help batteries store alot more energy.
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There are now lots of electric vehicles (EV) with traditional Lithium Ion (LiON) batteries, including fully 3D printed cars like this one, but now in a world first Germany’s Orten Electric-Trucks has unveiled its first commercial vehicle to be powered by 3D Printed LiON batteries produced by Blackstone Technology, and given the fact that other early prototype 3D printed LiON batteries had over 400% more energy density than their peers it’s a move that could very quickly help extend the range of EV’s beyond the current record of 1,000km. Blackstone said the battery powered vehicle is expected to be commercially available as early as the end of this year as part of a joint project.
Orten E-Trucks managing partner, Robert Orten, will show off the first commercial vehicle at a proper launch next month.
Meanwhile, the two companies say they are already set to take “the next step” and they’re already planning to release a hydrogen powered heavy duty truck for long distance transport which would also use Blackstone’s batteries.
Ulrich Ernst, the founder and CEO of Blackstone’s parent company, Blackstone Resources, said: “With 20% increased energy density, our batteries also enable 20% more range. At the same time, we can dramatically reduce environmental impacts in production and eliminate 50% of the industry’s waste materials thanks to 3D printing.”
Blackstone Technology’s Chief Marketing Officer, Serhat Yilmaz, said: “With this, we prove that our advanced batteries are ready for the market and that there is a great demand for them. Their numerous technical advantages play a major part in practical applications.”
World Battery News reported earlier this year that Blackstone had secured a €40m (£34m) investment boost from its parent firm – securing financing for plans to expand production at its plant in Döbeln, Germany, to 500 MWh per annum next year.
Last month, Blackstone said its 3D printed battery cells had passed the UN38.3 battery safety performance test with “flying colours.”
