Amprius Technologies and Matternet announced a collaboration to improve the performance and cost-effectiveness of autonomous drone delivery through high-energy density silicon-anode lithium-ion cells. Amprius’s cells are currently powering Matternet’s M2 aircraft, and the partnership aims to tailor next-generation battery solutions for Matternet’s upcoming platform.
As urban drone delivery expands, battery technology has become a critical factor influencing range, payload capacity, charging time, and per-delivery costs. Amprius’s silicon-anode cells offer up to twice the energy density of conventional graphite-based alternatives, reducing system weight and enabling greater operational flexibility. For Matternet, these improvements can translate into extended network coverage, faster charging cycles, and increased payloads.
Under the collaboration, engineers from both companies will work jointly to optimize cell chemistry, form factor, thermal management, charge rate, and cycle life. The objective is to integrate battery pack design seamlessly with Matternet’s aircraft architecture and delivery network, enhancing aircraft availability and lowering unit costs as commercial operations scale. Initial deployments have already demonstrated the benefits of Amprius’s cells in Matternet’s M2 fleet, and further integration is planned. The collaboration will also explore advanced battery management and monitoring systems to support safe operation under diverse urban flight conditions.
Matternet was among the first companies to obtain FAA Type Certification for an unmanned cargo aircraft, and it operates routine beyond-visual-line-of-sight services in urban environments. By aligning production ramp-up timelines with Matternet’s fleet expansion, Amprius aims to achieve volume manufacturing readiness by early 2027. This goal supports Matternet’s strategy to expand its commercial drone delivery services.
This partnership underscores the importance of high-performance battery systems in the emerging drone delivery sector and represents a step toward more efficient, cost-effective urban air logistics.
