Stellantis and Saft engineers and researchers announced today in France a prototype of an energy storage battery that integrates the inverter and charger functions. Integrating the inverter and charger functions creates a battery that is more efficient, which enhances the battery electric vehicle range and is more reliable and less costly. It also frees up space in the vehicle.

“Our journey to electrification is fueled by innovation and research excellence that uses the latest technology to address the real needs of our EV customers such as range, roominess and affordability while reducing carbon footprint by improving efficiency,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering & Technology Officer. “This revolutionary battery system could mark a decisive step in Stellantis’ commitment to provide useful, easy and advanced technology to all.”

The collaborative research project, known as the Intelligent Battery Integrated System (IBIS), is a joint corporate and academic research project in France focused on developing a more efficient and less expensive energy storage system. A demonstrator prototype, operational since summer 2022, is the subject of numerous patents and “marks a major break from electrical energy conversion systems currently used. The project has made it possible to validate many new technical concepts and master their control and operation in preparation for automotive or stationary applications,” Stellantis said.