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UK SME developing battery technology for the electrification of flight is looking for partners to bid for Horizon Europe Call CL5-2024-D2-02-03. Offering novel battery module architecture (TRL 6) with high energy density and layers of redundancy

Summary

Profile Type
  • Research & Development Request
POD Reference
RDRGB20240717015
Term of Validity
17 July 2024 - 17 July 2025
Company's Country
  • United Kingdom
Type of partnership
  • Research and development cooperation agreement
Targeted Countries
  • All countries
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General information

Short Summary
UK SME developing technologies for the electrification of flight is building a consortium to jointly submit a proposal to the Horizon Europe Call (Batt4EU). The company is developing technologies to retrofit aircraft with electric powertrains, replacing the internal combustion engine with clean energy alternatives that are cheaper, quieter and zero emission. Battery weight and safety are essential to further development. The company is looking for partners who offer complimentary technologies.
Full Description
Passionate about future of sustainable aviation, the SME is developing affordable alternatives to the ICE for general aviation and commercial regional transportation aircraft. They are developing electric propulsion systems that include electric motors, batteries and control electronics all in one package designed to be retrofitted into a range of existing aircraft. This retrofitting electrification technology provides a cost effective, environmentally friendly solution for owners and operators of light regional aircraft. The SME has developed novel battery module architecture (TRL 6) that enables 25% higher energy density levels while providing multiple layers of redundancy and other safety features. The battery pack contains a bespoke battery management system that continuously monitors each battery cell. By utilising custom high-performance materials, the battery modules themselves can withstand full cell thermal runaway. Over the last five years, the SME has accessed funding and investment enabling the company to gain valuable expertise in related technologies, regulation and market sector.

The UK company has engaged with stakeholders and manufacturers both in the UK and abroad to start addressing the challenges created by current generation battery weight, safety and thermal management. The company aims to join consortia with partners who are leading a bid with plans to develop complimentary technologies which benefit the sector and environment.

Ideal partners will have aligned objectives, sector expertise, distribution capability and a passion for delivering net zero. The UK SME’s operations, capabilities, features, and networks can be leveraged to develop a solution which prioritises safety, regulation and end-user to build new mobility ecosystems.

Joint applications under other EU funding instruments (DUT partnership, Eurostars and EIC Accelerator) are welcomed to create additional opportunities.
Advantages and Innovations
The innovations developed by the UK SME primary focus on safety and redundancy, which are critical for obtaining aerospace certifications. Their novel battery module architecture (TRL 6) is designed towards EASA CS-23 and CS-25 certifications in the near future. This is underpinned by pro-active sensing and monitoring technologies provided by custom battery management system (BMS) as well as unmatched levels of passive safety obtained by custom high-performance materials.

Unlike other competitors in the field, the UK SME is building complete powertrain systems with a straightforward integration pathway for customers. They are developing a range of standardised systems that will be compatible with majority of aircraft on the market today, representing a turnkey solution for customers.
Technical Specification or Expertise Sought
The UK SME are looking to engage with other innovative companies that can provide additional expertise in the material science, cell chemistry, battery modelling and simulation. Additionally, they are seeking engagement with academic institutions with new innovative intellectual property, relevant expertise and available test facilities for battery testing and abuse. The purpose of these engagements would be to ultimately form a consortium to apply for joint grant opportunities.
Stage of Development
  • Available for demonstration
Sustainable Development Goals
  • Goal 13: Climate Action
  • Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
  • Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
IPR status
  • IPR applied but not yet granted

Partner Sought

Expected Role of a Partner
Collaboration with Universities, research organizations and SMEs are sought who are conducting research or have expertise in either battery or power train technology. The ideal partner will be one who wishes to demonstrate how the technology can be adapted to benefit other sectors/applications.

The UK SME does not wish to lead but rather join existing consortia to bid for a Horizon Europe Call which benefits the environment, delivering cost effective solutions, social, economic and environmental benefits. Partners interested in consortia to access other funding instruments are also of interest.

Expressions of Interest are to be received by 19th August to allow time for completion of the application.
Type and Size of Partner
  • R&D Institution
  • University
  • SME 50 - 249
  • SME 11-49
  • SME <=10
Type of partnership
  • Research and development cooperation agreement

Call details

Framework program
  • Horizon Europe
Call title and identifier
HORIZON-CL5-2024-D2-02-03: Size & weight reduction of cell and packaging of batteries system, integrating lightweight and functional materials, innovative thermal management and safe and sustainable by design approach (Batt4EU Partnership)
Coordinator required
Yes
Deadline for EoI
Deadline of the call
Web link to the call
https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportuni…

Dissemination

Market keywords
  • 03002 - Batteries
  • 06008 - Energy Storage
  • 06011 - Energy for Transport
Sector Groups Involved
  • Mobility - Transport - Automotive
  • Aerospace and Defence
Targeted countries
  • All countries