Video: CTNS to build battery packs for Aptera

Aptera Motors is closer to scaled production of its solar EV with South Korea-based CTNS providing the battery pack.

Multiple agreements have been signed between the companies, establishing a formal business relationship which will develop other energy solutions and revenue streams, paving the way for the creation of a joint venture subsidiary.

CTNS offers services for the development, manufacturing, and management of battery packs for industries including robotics, EVs, and air mobility.

As Aptera’s tier-1 battery supplier and manufacturer, CTNS will bring its expertise to the US to support Aptera’s resources in designing, building, and validating a battery pack programme that is high-quality, energy-efficient, and reliable, says Aptera Motors.

The company says it will source and install battery production lines for Aptera in Carlsbad, California, and supply the Aptera battery pack for its solar EV launching with an estimated 640km range plus up to 64km daily from the sun’s rays. 

“Our alliance with CTNS allows us to reduce the risk and overall cost of our solar electric vehicle program,” says Aptera co-chief executive Chris Anthony.

“With CTNS’s support, we now have an accelerated timeline for final battery pack validation, including UN and IEC certification, and the ability to build our battery line faster than we could on our own.”

CTNS makes battery packs for companies including HL Mando, a leading supplier for Hyundai and Kia, Hyundai Robotics, Hyundai Mobis, and SK E&S.

Aptera Motors co-chief executive Steve Fambro says a California Energy Commission grant through the CEC’s Clean Transportation Program will accelerate the development of a critical part of its zero-emission vehicle and bring additional business and employment opportunities.

To power the joint venture company and the efforts to support Aptera’s battery pack program, CTNS will contribute US$5 million to Aptera and this collaboration.

This effort is also supported by the Korean grant program and will be complemented by the grant money awarded to Aptera from the CEC, totalling about US$10 million for Aptera’s battery manufacturing, says Fambro.

CTNS chief executive Ki-jeong Kwon says they’re confident of helping mass produce the Aptera as “the most efficient solar electric vehicle in the world” and become “the leaders of change in mobility”.