Nyobolt, a UK engineering firm, is making significant strides in the development of ultra-fast-charging and durable EV battery technology. The company is currently testing its innovative battery technology in a drivable version of its Lotus Elise-inspired concept car. This concept car, which was initially showcased as a static show car, is an electric reworking of the Lotus Elise, designed by Julian Thomson, the man behind the original Elise design.
The Nyobolt EV concept car serves as a test bed for a new generation of batteries that have the potential to revolutionize electric vehicles. The company’s high-density cell technology and battery management software can optimize powertrains for EVs that require high power and quick recharge cycles. Initial testing with the running prototype has yielded promising results. The 35kWh battery can be charged from 10-80% using a 350kW charger in just 4 minutes and 37 seconds. This charging time is twice as fast as most of the fastest-charging vehicles available today. Furthermore, Nyobolt has conducted 4000 full fast-charge cycles, equivalent to traveling around 600,000 miles, and the battery has retained over 80% of its usable capacity. This longevity surpasses the warranties of larger EV batteries currently on the market.
One key advantage of Nyobolt’s cell technology is its ability to minimize the size and weight of battery packs. The Nyobolt EV concept car weighs just 1246kg, similar to the weight of a Renault Clio. This lightweight design offers significant dynamic benefits for EV powertrains. With lighter batteries, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can build more exciting and performance-oriented EVs, as opposed to being limited by the heavy weight of conventional batteries.
Nyobolt has collaborated with design agency Callum to engineer the prototype for low-volume production. While no specific timeline or volume ambitions have been announced, Nyobolt states that low-volume battery production could begin this year, with the potential to ramp up to producing two million units per year using their flexible manufacturing model. The company is currently in discussions with eight vehicle manufacturers interested in utilizing its battery technology.
According to Nyobolt’s CEO, Sai Shivareddy, the company’s technology has garnered significant interest from OEMs, particularly in the premium segment. However, there is also potential for its application in the enthusiast and performance sectors. Nyobolt is also exploring opportunities outside of automotive, such as working with off-highway manufacturers who require high uptime and productivity enabled by ultra-fast charging. Additionally, Nyobolt plans to announce applications in robotics that would benefit both the manufacturing and supply chain sectors.
Overall, Nyobolt’s advancements in ultra-fast-charging and durable EV battery technology have the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. With faster charging times, longer battery life, and reduced weight, these batteries could significantly improve the range, performance, and charging convenience of electric vehicles. The company’s partnerships with design agencies and OEMs demonstrate the growing interest and demand for their technology. As EV adoption continues to increase, innovative solutions like Nyobolt’s batteries will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.