MALTA, NEW YORK — Wright Electric, in collaboration with Columbia University, has been awarded a contract from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) for their work on developing an ultra-energy-dense aluminum battery and novel artificial intelligence electrolyte screening system under the Pioneering Railroad, Oceanic and Plane Electrification with 1K energy storage systems (PROPEL-1K) program.
“ARPA-E is continuing to catalyze new industries with the PROPEL-1K program,” said Jeff Engler, CEO at Wright Electric. “We are excited to push the boundaries of battery technology and contribute to sustainable energy solutions in partnership with Columbia University.”
Established in 2016, Wright Electric aims to decarbonize transportation with electric airplanes and ships. The company collaborates with leading organizations such as NASA, Y Combinator, The U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Defense. Recently, Wright’s 2 megawatt (MW) powertrain achieved 43,000 ft of simulated altitude testing without partial discharge.
Wright’s battery program, launched in October 2023 after years of stealth development, focuses on developing batteries that are 4x more energy dense than traditional lithium-ion batteries, enabling the electrification of challenging transportation sectors like electric aircraft and container ships.
The company’s Automated Experimentation with Radical Electrochemical Systems (AERES) technology uses systematic screening and open-source hardware to quickly evaluate electrolytes for these advanced batteries.
“Constructing an aluminum battery with household ingredients is simple, but making one that meets the efficiency and power output requirements for vehicles is challenging,” Engler explained.
Wright’s involvement in the PROPEL-1K program will further advance the development of these innovative batteries.
For media inquiries, contact: Jill Gottlieb, Jill.Gottlieb@weflywright.com
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