Ionblox Inc. develops advanced lithium-ion battery cells designed for electric vehicles (EVs) and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company, established in 2017 and formerly known as Zenlabs Energy, creates high-performance batteries that enable rapid charging, extended range, and prolonged operational life. Based in Fremont, California, Ionblox specializes in silicon-based battery technology that delivers significant improvements over traditional graphite-based systems. Their innovations aim to accelerate the widespread adoption of electric mobility by addressing crucial performance limitations in current battery technology.
Battery Technology
Ionblox’s primary innovation centers on their silicon monoxide anode technology, which provides ten times the specific capacity compared to conventional graphite anodes. This advancement results in batteries that can achieve 60% charge in five minutes and 80% charge in ten minutes, making electric vehicle charging times comparable to traditional fuel refilling.
The company’s battery systems incorporate a patented pre-lithiation process for silicon-based anodes, enhancing performance while reducing production costs. Their unique cell architecture features a nano-engineered solid electrolyte interphase layer that improves conductivity and ensures minimal capacity loss during extreme fast charging conditions. These batteries demonstrate a 30% increase in driving range compared to standard EV battery packs, achieving 390 miles on a single charge.
For aviation applications, Ionblox’s cells deliver the specific energy and power required for safe, efficient eVTOL operations, supporting multiple flights per day with minimal charging time between operations. The technology maintains consistent performance through over 1,000 extreme fast charge cycles.
Recent Projects
In November 2023, Ionblox formed a partnership with Gelion to develop LiSiS cells, combining their silicon oxide anode expertise with Gelion’s sulfur cathode technology. This collaboration aims to enhance performance in both EV and electric aviation applications.
In October 2023, the company introduced its extreme fast charging lithium-silicon cells, showcasing capabilities that enable EVs to gain up to 225 miles of range in just five minutes of charging.
Investors
Ionblox has secured significant financial backing through its Series B funding rounds, reaching $32 million. Notable investors include:
- Applied Ventures: Venture capital division of Applied Materials
- Temasek: Global investment company
- Catalus Capital: Multi-strategy private equity firm
- Lilium: German electric taxi startup
Business Details
Location: Fremont, California, USA
Website: https://ionblox.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ionblox/
