Featuring technology from English developer Echion, the Li-ion cell will replace Leclanché’s LTO batteries.
Swiss technology manufacturer Leclanché has launched the world’s first commercial lithium-ion (li-ion) battery cell, XN50, aiming to replace its current lithium-titanate-oxide (LTO) offering.
The battery cell is equipped with Echion Technologies’ XNO, a niobium-based active anode material. It features a differentiated battery option, outperforming existing chemistries in heavy-duty e-mobility, rail and marine applications.
“We are delighted to announce the launch of the world’s first commercial XNO Li-ion cell,” said Pierre Blanc, the chief executive officer at Leclanché. “XNO is soon set to displace the use of LTO within our product line and it will complement our current G/NMC offering as the go-to fast charging battery solution for heavy-duty applications, and so we look forward to integrating XNO into our innovative module and pack systems.”
The XN50 cell, having undergone extensive product development, offers 50% higher energy density than LTO technologies while maintaining high cell safety and performance in extreme conditions.
Its fast charging is coupled with a longer estimated cycle life of 10,000 cycles when used in heavy-duty applications. It experiences less than a 3% capacity loss and less than 15% resistance growth after 1,000 2C/2C charge/discharge cycles at 45 degrees Celsius.
Environmental sustainability was also a priority when developing the XN50 cell. Its water-based cathode formulation means that the cell electrodes are PFAS-free, minimising its environmental impact.
With XN50 [Leclanché] is setting a new standard for heavy-duty Li-ion batteries. We have witnessed their exceptional drive, hard work and expertise first-hand over the last three years,” said Jean de La Verpilliere, the chief executive officer of Echion Technologies. “I am proud that Echion was able to support them in the development of this industry-leading cell, and now look forward to seeing XN50 in the field at scale, which will enable end-users to benefit from a battery specifically engineered for industrial and mass transportation applications, significantly enhancing their operations while reducing emissions."
