French companies Forsee Power, Blue Solutions, and Bluebus, all subsidiaries of the Bolloré Group, have joined forces to develop a solid-state battery made in France, set to launch in 2026. The collaboration will focus on developing a new generation of battery cells, known as GEN4, to be integrated into Forsee Power’s battery systems. Bus manufacturer Bluebus will use the new lithium-ion NMC battery system for its 6-metre and 12-metre buses, replacing its LMP battery systems.
The new system includes the Zen Slim, a smaller battery system available with 11, 16, or 21 kWh that will be used for the 6-metre buses. Meanwhile, the Zen Plus, consisting of 28 to 32 modules delivering 74 to 84 kWh, will be used for the larger bus models. The battery packs are versatile, designed to be installed both in the rear of the vehicle and on the roof. Additionally, they can power both 650-volt and 800-volt systems.
See also: Forsee Power announced substantial order for Zen Slim battery modules from Wrightbus
While no further details about the cells have been disclosed, the companies have stated that the NMC lithium-ion cells, combined with efficient liquid thermal management and designed for all climate zones, offer a lifetime of 5,000 cycles.
In 2022, Forsee Power launched its Poitiers production site in France with an annual production capacity of one GWh. By 2027, the site could manufacture batteries with an annual capacity of 4 GWh, signaling the company’s commitment to innovation and the country’s transition towards sustainable energy.
This collaboration between Forsee Power, Blue Solutions, and Bluebus showcases the potential of French technology in advancing the electric vehicle industry, and their dedication to reducing carbon emissions and creating a more sustainable future.
