In a significant move towards eco-friendly transportation, Stellantis Ventures, a division of global automaker Stellantis N.V., has strategically invested in the French firm Tiamat, known for its pioneering work in sodium-ion battery technology. This collaboration aligns with Stellantis’ commitment to providing clean, safe, and cost-effective mobility solutions.
Sodium-ion batteries, distinguished by their affordability and enhanced sustainability, stand out due to their absence of lithium and cobalt. The technology boasts superior low-temperature performance and faster charging capabilities, making it a promising alternative to the prevalent lithium-ion batteries.
Tiamat, which received recognition as a top technology startup with the Stellantis Ventures Award in 2023, has achieved a significant milestone by being the first to commercialize sodium-ion technology in an electrified product.
This investment is a cornerstone of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, emphasizing a shift to electric propulsion with an aim to achieve 100% battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales in Europe and a 50% BEV sales mix in the United States by 2030. Stellantis aims to secure approximately 400 GWh of battery capacity to meet these targets and is on course to realize its goal of becoming a carbon net zero corporation by 2038.
Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, highlights the investment’s importance: “Our focus on sustainable and affordable battery technology, utilizing readily available materials, is pivotal in our journey towards carbon neutrality. We are dedicated to meeting our customers’ demands for emission-free vehicles that do not compromise on range, performance, or affordability.”
In line with these goals, Stellantis has been actively securing supplies of EV raw materials and investing in diverse energy storage technologies, including partnerships with Factorial Energy and Lyten Inc. for solid-state and lithium-sulfur batteries, respectively.
Tiamat, originating from the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), plans to utilize the investment for constructing a sodium-ion battery plant in France. The facility will initially focus on power tools and stationary storage applications, with an eventual scale-up for BEV applications.
Stellantis Ventures, established with a €300 million initial investment, aims to foster innovation in the automotive and mobility sectors by supporting startups that align with Stellantis’ mission of enhancing customer and societal outcomes. This dual mandate not only fosters sustainable growth but also integrates new technologies into Stellantis’ product portfolio and operations.
