South Korean firm LS Materials has developed a new hybrid energy storage system (H-ESS) for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, combining lithium-ion batteries with high-performance capacitors to enhance fast-charging reliability and reduce operating costs.
The hybrid system aims to support EV fast-charging infrastructure by enabling energy buffering during peak usage periods. According to the company, the H-ESS is more compact, safer and offers a service life five to ten times longer than conventional stationary energy storage systems used at charging sites.
“The system allows stable charging of multiple vehicles even during peak times,” LS Materials said in a statement, noting the capacitors can rapidly absorb and discharge energy between charging sessions. The project was developed in partnership with LS Cable & Systems and supported by South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.
The company says the hybrid design reduces heat generation, lowers fire risk, and avoids the performance degradation often seen in traditional systems subjected to frequent rapid cycling. The technology is expected to reduce long-term costs and improve safety at charging stations.
LS Materials also plans to apply the H-ESS in other sectors requiring fast-response energy storage, including renewable energy installations and AI data centers. “We will expand the application to areas that require rapid response… and intensify our efforts to develop the global market with a focus on North America and Europe,” said CEO Hong Young-ho.
Production of the hybrid storage units will take place at a facility in Gumi, operated by HiMK, LS Materials’ joint venture with Austria’s Hammerer Aluminium Industries. The venture, launched in 2024, also manufactures lightweight aluminium components for electric vehicles.