Presentation Title: Opportunities for XNO® technology in the global heavy-duty electrification markets

Abstract:

In the past decade, the adoption of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has revolutionised road transport, significantly contributing to carbon emission reduction. This success has primarily been driven by the widespread use of graphite-based LIBs in light-duty vehicles, where high energy density is essential, but power capability requirements are relatively low. However, as we shift focus towards the decarbonisation of heavy-duty commercial applications, particularly in the maritime sector, the limitations of existing graphite-based battery technologies become apparent. These technologies face significant challenges in fast-charging scenarios, compromising both performance and safety—key factors for maritime applications where high power, extended cycle life, and reliability are crucial.

Echion Technologies is addressing these challenges with an innovative energy hybridisation solution centred around its proprietary niobium anode material, Mixed Niobium Oxide (XNO®). This presentation will delve into the superior performance of XNO® materials, highlighting their capability to meet the rigorous demands of maritime applications. Additionally, we will showcase the latest developments in XNO® cell technology, demonstrating why these cells are ideally suited for heavy-duty transport and industrial applications. With a focus on maximising performance and safety, XNO® cells offer a pathway to achieving a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over extended lifetimes—critical for industries where the return on expensive capital assets is paramount.

Bio:

Dr. Jianshen Wu is currently taking a role of Senior Technical Specialist at Echion Technologies Ltd. He received his doctorate degree in Materials Science in 2019 from Loughborough University where his research focused on the development of solid-state cathode for LIBs and the associated structural understanding. During his post-graduate studies, he was awarded the Armourers & Brasiers Medal by the Royal Academy of Engineering, in recognition of his merit to novel materials development. Following his education, he joined Echion where he led technical initiatives spanning from upscaling manufacture of niobium-based materials for market applications, to the associated environmental life cycle assessment in the context of  the sustainable economy. Jianshen's expertise has been recognized by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) which awarded him the status of Chartered Engineer in 2021. He has a proven track record of translating a laboratory niobium prototype battery into a market-ready product, effectively bringing differentiated battery technologies to homogeneous market. He is now primarily leading efforts for pioneering the battery development and product commercialisation of Echion’s fast-charging niobium-based battery materials (XNO®) in the high-end market in China.