Britishvolt, which is behind plans to create a 30GWh Gigafactory in Blyth, has partnered with luxury car marker Aston Martin to develop battery cell technology for its electric cars.
The collaboration, formalised in a memorandum of understanding, further supports the car makers plans to launch its first battery electric vehicle in 2025.
A joint research and development team from both companies will design, develop and industrialise battery packs, including modules and a battery management system. The two organisations will work together to maximise the capability of cylindrical high-performance cells being developed by Britishvolt for use in high performance Aston Martin electric vehicles.
Continuing its electrification roadmap, Aston Martin’s first plug-in hybrid – the mid-engine Valhalla – will commence deliveries in early 2024. By 2026, all new product lines will have an electrified powertrain option, with a target for its core portfolio to be fully electrified by 2030.
The collaboration is complementary to Aston Martin’s strategic technology agreement with Mercedes-Benz AG. Any investment will be funded by existing capital expenditure commitments to developing electric vehicles.
Orral Nadjari, chief executive and founder of Britishvolt, said: “For a prestigious marque such as Aston Martin, staying true to its world-renowned brand of ultra-luxury, high-performance vehicles, whilst transitioning to electrification, means insisting on customised, sustainable battery cell technology that pushes the boundaries of performance. Britishvolt is excited to be collaborating with Aston Martin, helping accelerate that switch to electrification – I believe we make formidable partners.
“This collaboration once again highlights the value of working hand-in-glove with customers to co-develop and manufacture tailored, sustainable, localised battery cells, allowing vehicle makers to deliver superior products. Technologies that reset the benchmarks.”
Tobias Moers, chief executive of Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “This powerful collaboration combines Aston Martin’s 109 years of engineering mastery with the expertise of a fast-growing UK technology business. Working together with Britishvolt, I believe we can create new technologies to power benchmark-setting Aston Martin electric cars that will match our reputation for high performance and ultra-luxury with the highest standards of sustainability.”
He added: “Supplementing the close strategic relationship with our shareholder Mercedes-Benz AG, this partnership provides Aston Martin with additional access to technology and skills to broaden our electrification options.”