Ampere, the electrical and software entity of Renault RENA.PA, announced on Monday that it was expanding its battery offering to LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) technology, with lower energy density but more affordable than current NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) chemistry. used by the diamond manufacturer.
Ampere has signed a five-year contract to obtain supplies from the production of the Korean LG Energy Solution in Poland, and has also expanded its supplies to the LFP from the Hungarian site of the Chinese CATL, in particular for the future Renault Twingo.
“This decision is an effective and innovative response to market volatility and evolving technologies,” Ampere explained in a statement.
The first deliveries are planned for 2026.
The entire automotive industry is currently considering expanding its range of battery chemistries to address all market segments and face looming competition from ultra-competitive Chinese electric vehicles (EVs).
Battery manufacturer Automotive Cells Company (ACC), a joint venture between Stellantis STLAM.MI and Mercedes MBGn.DE, has suspended its battery gigafactory projects in Germany and Italy, in a context of slowing demand for EVs. and a reflection on cheaper technologies than the NMC.
(Report by Gilles Guillaume, edited by Kate Entringer)