Battery cell manufacturer AMTE Power and powertrain developer Viritech are set to develop tech for a hydrogen-powered hypercar.
The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding that should allow AMTE Power’s Ultra High Power cells to be used in Viritech’s battery packs for high-performance fuel cell cars.
The cells are set to be used in Viritech’s upcoming Apricale hypercar, which should be revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed later this month.
That’s not all, however. The two companies believe that the collaboration could extend to a range of different sectors including HGVs, LCVs, marine, aerospace, and distributed power applications.
“Batteries are essential to the transition to hydrogen-electric vehicles and our UHP cells are the perfect fit for this collaboration, with our carefully refined cell chemistry able to fulfil the specific power, weight and safety requirements for Viritech’s power trains,” says Kevin Brundish, CEO of AMTE Power.
“This partnership will help the EV industry move to net-zero emissions while ensuring the UK remains a competitive player in automotive manufacturing.”
Viritech’s powertrain combines hydrogen fuel cells with lithium-ion cells. The technology is intended to provide an additional power boost on ignition, acceleration and when driving on a gradient, as well as enabling smaller, more lightweight battery systems that reduce weight compromises. Charging for the battery cells can be generated through the operation of the fuel cell and regenerative braking.
“We are really excited about working with AMTE Power. We look forward to seeing what the businesses can achieve together and how AMTE Power’s battery technology can assist with lightweighting zero-emission vehicles that are critical to the decarbonisation of global transport systems,” says Matt Faulks, Viritech’s CTO.
The memorandum of understanding is the latest in a series of commercial deals announced by AMTE Power within the automotive sector as it continues to move towards commercialisation.
