Amprius unveils enhanced high-performance cell with silicon anode

California-based battery developer Amprius has introduced a new variant of its high-performance 'SiCore' cell, achieving an impressive energy density of 450 Wh/kg. Targeted at applications in e-mobility and aviation, the new cell is expected to be ready for mass production in the near future.

The SiCore cell also offers a volumetric energy density of 950 Wh/L. Built with Amprius’ proprietary silicon anode material system, the new technology delivers up to 80 per cent more energy than conventional lithium-ion cells with graphite anodes. This translates into longer vehicle ranges, extended flight times, and improved overall system performance — all within a compact and lightweight design.

Amprius first launched its SiCore cells in January with an energy density of 370 Wh/kg. However, the firm had already made significant advances with its SiMaxx cell platform, which has reached 450 Wh/kg and is currently delivering A-samples.

“We’ve demonstrated what’s possible at 450 Wh/kg with our SiMaxx platform years ago,” said Amprius CEO Kang Sun. “What makes this SiCore cell different and noteworthy is that it brings that level of extreme performance into a cell chemistry and format that are ready to scale with the existing lithium-ion battery manufacturing processes and equipment in the industry. It’s production-ready, commercially available, and already being qualified by customers today.”

According to Amprius, the new SiCore cell has been designed to meet the rigorous demands of aerospace and defence applications, offering reliable performance across wide temperature ranges and in mission-critical environments. The cell’s combination of higher range and payload capacity without added weight is expected to lower total system costs and operational complexity.

Amprius is currently collaborating with leading aerospace and defence customers preparing for commercial use of the technology. To support the expected demand, Amprius has established a global contract manufacturing network with gigawatt-hour-scale production capacity, enabling cost-competitive delivery.

Among Amprius’ major partners is the United States Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC), affiliated with the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR), the joint technology venture of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. USABC invested three million dollars in Amprius three years ago, forming the basis of a close strategic partnership.

amprius.com