Safire Technology Group Inc. is a venture-backed enterprise specializing in advanced lithium-ion battery safety solutions. The company emerged from a five-year research initiative at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Their focus lies in developing innovative safety technologies that address critical battery volatility issues in electric vehicles, defense applications, and aerospace sectors. Since its inception, the company has established itself as a significant contributor to battery safety innovation through its proprietary technologies and strategic partnerships with industry leaders.
Battery Technology
The company’s flagship innovation is the Safe Impact-Resistant Electrolyte (SAFIRETM), a patented drop-in additive for lithium-ion batteries. This technology functions through an immediate liquid-to-solid transformation mechanism that activates upon mechanical impact, such as during vehicle collisions or ballistic events. The transformation process prevents internal short circuits and thermal runaway, effectively eliminating the risk of fire or explosion.
SAFIRETM technology integrates seamlessly into existing battery manufacturing processes without requiring significant modifications to production lines. This adaptability makes it particularly valuable for manufacturers seeking enhanced safety features without compromising performance or adding substantial weight. The technology has demonstrated exceptional results in protecting batteries from various threats, including mechanical deformation, thermal stress, and ballistic impacts.
The company’s technical achievements include developing specialized applications for extreme temperature environments through their Extreme Climate Asset Protection System (xCAPS). This adaptation of SAFIRE technology enhances battery survivability in harsh conditions, particularly beneficial for unmanned ground vehicles and AI-driven surveillance systems used by the U.S. Air Force.
Recent Projects
In September 2024, Safire Technology Group secured significant contracts for implementing their technology in several military and civilian applications. Notable projects include developing ruggedized electric motorcycles with enhanced safety features, creating rapidly deployable sensor towers, and designing advanced unmanned ground vehicles with improved battery protection systems.
The company also initiated a partnership with Glatfelter Corporation to develop new battery separators optimized for SAFIRE technology, specifically targeting applications for the U.S. Air Force.
Investors
The company successfully completed an $8 million Pre-Series A financing round in September 2024, led by Canaan Partners. Additional investors include Correlation Ventures, Higher Life Ventures, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Automotive Ventures, Outpost Ventures, Potomac Angel Capital, and MaC Venture Capital. This funding round brought the total investment in Safire Technology Group to $11 million, supporting their expansion plans and technology development initiatives.
Business Details
Location: Tysons, Virginia, USA
Website: https://safire.co
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safiregroup
