South 8 Technologies, a San Diego–based developer of advanced lithium-ion batteries, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with CTNS, a South Korean battery solutions provider with North American operations in Redmond, Washington. Under the LOI, the two companies will explore joint development, integration, and commercialization of next-generation lithium-ion battery pack systems, leveraging South 8’s patented LiGas® technology and CTNS’s expertise in battery pack design.
The collaboration aims to address the growing demand for safe, reliable, and high-performance batteries in demanding environments, including the defense and aerospace sectors. Both companies will initially target joint customers in North America, South Korea, and other global markets. Battery packs developed under the agreement will feature South 8 LiGas cells, which offer a broad operating temperature range (–60 to 60 °C), enhanced safety characteristics, and advanced state-of-health monitoring capabilities.
Rusty Heffner, Vice President of Strategy at South 8 Technologies, noted that the partnership aligns complementary strengths: “This LOI represents an important step toward serving customers whose solutions must operate in extreme conditions.” Han Ko, CEO of CTNS North America and Managing Director of Global Business, said the agreement will “deliver meaningful advancements to our global customers, combining South 8’s cutting-edge LiGas technology with CTNS’ proven battery pack integration.”
The two companies plan to optimize CTNS’s pack designs to fully exploit LiGas cell performance in cold-weather discharge and recharge scenarios, with a focus on reliability in temperatures as low as –40°F. CTNS battery packs featuring LiGas cells are expected to exceed conventional systems in safety, thermal resilience, and lifecycle monitoring.
South 8 Technologies pioneers a liquefied gas electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries, enabling cells to perform across an unprecedented temperature spectrum. The company offers finished cells and integration kits to partners aiming to enhance defense, aerospace, and electrified transportation systems with robust electrochemical performance.
Founded in South Korea, CTNS specializes in high-mix, low-volume battery projects for defense, mobility, and industrial applications. With over 500 projects since 2017, CTNS provides end-to-end solutions—including design, manufacturing, and lifecycle management—supported by smart manufacturing and battery data management systems.
Source: Business Wire
