UK e-powertrain consultancy CamMotive has opened a new 800-channel battery testing laboratory in Cambridge, significantly expanding domestic capability for high-current cell evaluation.
The facility includes a high-capacity test cell capable of cycling hundreds of large-format cells under controlled conditions, delivering up to 800A per cell. According to the company, it is one of very few sites in the UK able to combine this level of channel count with such high current capability.
Designed to accelerate next-generation battery development, the laboratory is aimed primarily at supporting automotive OEMs with compliance testing, modelling and performance optimisation. CamMotive said the facility will help customers improve range, lifespan and charging efficiency while shortening development timelines.
The high-current capability is intended for large automotive cells as well as other high-power, high-capacity technologies used in applications such as eVTOL aircraft, data centres and stationary battery energy storage systems. With more than 800 channels available, companies can test large volumes of cells simultaneously under varying duty cycles and environmental conditions.
The laboratory is equipped with high-precision cyclers and advanced electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to enable detailed long-term analysis, including cell ageing and end-of-life simulation. CamMotive’s engineering team will also provide modelling and calibration support to interpret test data and refine performance parameters.
Additional infrastructure includes dynamic climatic chambers operating from -40°C to +180°C, enabling replication of extreme environmental conditions, and process thermostats for real-world thermal management testing. For module and pack-level work, the site offers testing capability up to 1MW. Lower-current cyclers are also installed to accommodate smaller-capacity cells and emerging chemistries.
Strengthening the UK’s advanced battery testing infrastructure
CamMotive said the investment is intended to strengthen the UK’s advanced battery testing infrastructure and support both established manufacturers and start-ups developing new cell technologies and applications.
Bruce Campbell, director at CamMotive, said: “The launch of our new test facility marks the latest phase of CamMotive’s commitment to advancing battery technology and its applications. We provide solutions across the entire battery ecosystem, from early concept to end-of-line validation. Working with UK cell developers and digital modellers, manufacturers and integrators, we combine world-class testing infrastructure with decades of powertrain expertise to help our partners deliver sustainable solutions for road, air, sea transportation, and stationary applications.”
Image: CamMotive opens 800-channel, high-current battery testing lab in Cambridge
Credit: CamMotive
