The U.S. Department of War has granted Amprius Technologies up to $75 million to convert an electric vehicle battery production line into a facility for drone batteries. This retrofit, located in Fremont, California, aims to produce high-energy-density cells for unmanned aerial systems, with a projected capacity of 12 million cells annually by early 2028.
This initiative is significant as it aligns with domestic sourcing requirements under the National Defense Authorization Act, ensuring that the U.S. can meet its defense needs with locally produced batteries. The total conversion project is estimated to cost around $100 million, which includes the federal grant and investments from Amprius and its South Korean manufacturing partner.
Looking ahead, the converted facility will enhance Amprius’ manufacturing network and provide defense customers with access to NDAA-compliant batteries at higher volumes. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Editor's Note
The conversion of an EV battery line into a drone battery production facility highlights the growing intersection of defense and advanced manufacturing. This project not only aims to bolster domestic battery production capabilities but also addresses the increasing demand for high-performance batteries in unmanned aerial systems. The collaboration with a South Korean partner underscores the importance of international partnerships in achieving technological advancements.
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