Australian battery developer 3ME Technology has been selected by the US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to supply and demonstrate its EdgeVolt portable energy storage system.
The work forms part of DIU’s Portable Resilient Integrated Storage Module (PRISM) prototype programme, which is intended to develop rugged, deployable power systems for military use.
3ME will provide the standard EdgeVolt system and a cold-weather version incorporating lithium-ion cells from South 8 Technologies. These use South 8’s LiGas liquefied-gas electrolyte and are engineered to operate at temperatures ranging from –60C to 60C.
EdgeVolt is a modular energy storage system designed to supply portable power for defence, emergency response and remote industrial applications. Potential loads include communications equipment, sensors, field infrastructure, autonomous platforms and other mission equipment.
The system is intended to reduce dependence on fuel-powered generators and can be scaled for different field requirements, including tactical vehicles and microgrids.
3ME Technology showcasing Australian-developed systems
3ME Technology CEO Justin Bain said: “This award is an important opportunity for 3ME Technology to demonstrate how Australian-developed energy systems can help address power and endurance challenges for defence users.
“We are proud to support the Defense Innovation Unit programme and to contribute our experience in mission-ready power solutions to this rapid prototype to production effort.”
3ME is an Aukus Authorised User and said its involvement demonstrated the role of Aukus Pillar II in supporting defence technology collaboration between Australia, the UK and US.
The company did not disclose the EdgeVolt system’s storage capacity, the chemistry used in its standard configuration, the value of the award or the timetable for delivery and testing.
