Stellantis, one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, is setting its sights on crafting lighter electric vehicle (EV) batteries to significantly enhance sustainability. The company’s Chief Technology Officer, Ned Curic, emphasized the urgency of this endeavor during the inauguration of Stellantis’ Battery Technology Center in Turin, Italy.
Curic expressed concerns about the weight of current EV batteries, stating that they are “just too heavy” and render vehicles “not compatible” with sustainability objectives. To address this issue, he outlined an ambitious goal for his team, aiming to achieve a 50% reduction in battery weight by 2030.
However, Curic admitted that the path to achieving this goal remains uncertain, asserting, “We will have to think about completely new materials, new chemistry, [and a] new way of replacing this heavy, heavy, heavy materials to something much lighter.”
Stellantis, the third-largest car manufacturer globally, which boasts well-known brands such as Fiat, Peugeot, and Jeep, has already invested €40 million (approximately $43 million) in its Turin Battery Technology Center. This facility will be dedicated to in-house testing and the development of EV battery packs for the group’s future vehicles. Additionally, a similar facility is under construction in Windsor, Canada, focusing on North American operations.
During the presentation, Curic teased an upcoming Stellantis vehicle, describing it as “very affordable.” However, he refrained from disclosing specific pricing details, emphasizing the company’s commitment to making EVs accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Curic underscored the importance of transitioning from carbon-based energy to electric vehicle systems, citing the potential for a more sustainable future. Stellantis continues to make strides in battery technology and affordability, further contributing to the evolution of the automotive industry.
