UK

On April 26, Ilika, a solid-state battery (SSB) technology company, announced that Agratas, Tata Group's global battery business, has joined the SiSTEM project. The project will create a 1.5MWh SSB assembly line to produce Ilika's A-sample solid-state battery pouch cells for automotive OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. The Automotive Transformation Fund has funded the SiSTEM project with grants amounting to GBP 2.7 million. 

As part of the project, Agratas will evaluate the scale-up needs for Ilika's solid-state battery technology, which includes designing a concept facility to incorporate SSB manufacturing equipment on a Gigafactory scale.

Additionally, Ilika and Agratas have entered into a 12-month agreement to support Ilika’s progression towards its D8 (50Ah, chemistry frozen) development milestone in H1 2025. The partnership also involves exploring broader collaboration opportunities between the two entities.

Based on Ilika press release

On May 1, Aston Martin unveiled its new V12 engine, signaling a shift in the ultra-luxury model. The engine generates output of 835PS and 1000Nm of torque, it promises unparalleled performance. The engine undergoes a complete redesign, optimizing every aspect for efficiency and power.

Key features include a reinforced cylinder block, redesigned cylinder heads, and improved intake and exhaust ports. Spark plug repositioning and upgraded fuel injectors enhance combustion. Higher-speed, lower-inertia turbochargers increase performance and throttle response.

The engine will feature in Aston Martin's most exclusive models, handcrafted in limited numbers. It debuts in a flagship model later in 2024 in the luxury automotive landscape. Further technical details will be revealed upon its launch.

Based on Aston Martin press release

On April 30, Bentley Motors held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Paint Shop in Crewe factory, England. The facility is a part of Bentley's carbon-neutral headquarters which will support future Battery-Powered EV production and set new standards in manufacturing operations.

The Paint Shop is 12,460 sqm. including a four-story office building, accommodating over 370 Bentley employees, and it is set to be completed in 2025. It will offer nearly 100 paint colors, integrated into the building's design. The investment is part of a GBP 2.5 billion program for future products at the Pyms Lane factory in Crewe, where all Bentley models are crafted by hand.

Based on Bentley press release