China’s automotive industry is experiencing rapid growth, with new vehicle models being brought to market in as little as 18 months. This rapid pace places significant pressure on traditional Western automakers, which typically require over four years from concept to production. Ian Campbell, co-founder and CEO of Breathe Battery Technologies, emphasises that both Asian and Western markets are focused on minimising development costs and time.
A key concern in the industry is battery technology, a critical aspect for the success of electric vehicles (EVs). Automakers must accurately predict market trends several years ahead, a challenging prospect given the fast-evolving nature of the EV landscape. Addressing the intricacies of physical battery components can be costly and unpredictable, propelling Breathe to enhance battery performance through software solutions.
Breathe has launched a suite of tools aimed at optimising battery utilisation. Recently, the company secured a $21 million Series B funding round led by Kinnevik Online AB, with participation from Lowercarbon Capital and Volvo Cars Tech Fund. This funding is intended to expedite the integration of their software tools in the early stages of battery development. Their current product lineup includes four tools: Design, Model, Map, and Charge.
The Charge tool, Breathe’s initial product, optimises charging processes to either enhance battery lifespan or expedite recharging. The software has proven effective; for instance, it significantly cut charging times for Oppo smartphones and allows Volvo’s upcoming ES90 sedan to charge from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes. Breathe’s technology adeptly adjusts to the unique characteristics of each battery cell, enhancing their overall performance.
Breathe’s offerings also assist automakers in designing batteries and forecasting performance over time, helping them allocate resources more effectively. For example, if a new, economical battery chemistry demonstrates potential for a longer lifespan, manufacturers might opt for faster charging, accepting a slight reduction in longevity.
To further facilitate their services, Breathe operates a laboratory in London, capable of conducting various tests on customer-supplied batteries. Within a month, they can deliver a simulated performance model to clients, followed by real-world data through the Map product to refine their forecasts. The upcoming Design tool will complete their suite by providing additional design support.
Campbell seeks to reduce the extensive physical testing typically required to bring batteries to market, aiming to replicate the efficiency of simulation tools already established in the semiconductor industry. His vision is to apply similar methodologies for battery design, as seen with companies like Apple and Nvidia in collaboration with manufacturing partners like TSMC.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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