California-based battery developer South 8 Technologies has inaugurated a semi-automated production line at its San Diego center to manufacture extreme-cold lithium-ion cells for military applications.
Funded in part by a $9.2 million grant in April, the new line supports production of the company’s ARCTIC AE35 18650 cell.
The battery uses a proprietary liquefied gas electrolyte, enabling sustained operation in temperatures ranging from negative 76 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (negative 60 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius).
According to the California firm, the facility aims to reach 5 megawatt-hours of annual cylindrical cell capacity by 2027.
Initial output will supply defense contractors, including 3ME Technology and Galvion, for deployment in unmanned platforms, secure communications, remote sensors, and power supplies for dismounted troops.
Boosting In-Country Supply Chain
South 8 noted that work at its San Diego site also supports Washington’s national defense sourcing standards by yielding cells and electrolyte locally while securing materials to eliminate reliance on foreign entities of concern.
“Customers need battery cells that perform in extreme environments while also reducing supply chain risk,” said Rusty Heffner, vice president of strategy at South 8 Technologies.
“We provide the cold weather performance our customers require while building cells domestically with a supply chain that was selected to comply with the NDAA Section 842 rules.”