Monolith and About:Energy partner on AI-powered battery modelling

Monolith and About:Energy are partnering to accelerate the development of next-generation EV batteries, speeding up the R&D process by 12 to 18 months through AI-powered battery modelling.

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Both based in London, Monolith, an artificial intelligence (AI) software provider and battery software specialist About:Energy said they share a common vision to reduce EV development time.

To achieve this, engineers from both companies are developing pre-trained AI models in the Monolith platform using precise, advanced battery data from About:Energy. Taking data from numerous batteries, these pre-trained models will enable more accurate, valuable predictions for battery degradation and thermal propagation that will result in fewer tests, reduced testing costs, and improved battery performance and safety.

According to the companies, the integration of advanced, technologically driven testing and validation practices will enable vehicle manufacturers to obtain new insights into ‘the intractable physics’ of batteries, thereby delivering higher-performing batteries in a reduced timeframe. The immediate focus for the partnership is automotive, with the potential to consider other transport sectors including micromobility and aerospace.

In a statement, Dr Richard Ahlfeld, CEO and founder of Monolith said: “Our partnership with About:Energy allows us to build more accurate models predicting battery degradation and thermal runaway, using the most robust and reliable battery test data available to engineers.

“Whether you are an automotive OEM looking for more comprehensive data, a battery manufacturer, or an EV start-up without test facilities, our pre-trained AI models promise to help optimise your battery validation test plans, and ultimately accelerate the availability of better EVs.”

In a separate development, About:Energy is addressing the UK’s battery skills gap with the launch of ‘Formula Student: Drive to Recharge’, which will support the development of 1,500 battery engineers by 2030.

As part of the initiative, About:Energy has sponsored five Formula Student teams in the UK. The company will provide each one with simulation tools and education resources aimed at enhancing battery pack design.