In a groundbreaking move, Stellantis and Ample have formalized a partnership aimed at transforming the landscape of electric vehicle (EV) battery charging technology. The collaboration seeks to harness the power of Ample’s innovative Modular Battery Swapping Technology, promising to recharge EV batteries fully in less than five minutes.
The binding agreement solidifies the commitment of both companies to integrate Ample’s battery-swapping solution into Stellantis electric vehicles, a move set to redefine the charging experience for EV owners. The battery swapping technology enables drivers to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones within minutes at specialized stations.
Discussions are underway to expand the application of Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping Technology across various Stellantis platforms and geographical locations, catering to the growing demand from both fleet and individual consumers.
The initial phase of the program is scheduled to kick off in Madrid, Spain, in 2024, featuring a fleet of 100 Fiat 500e vehicles within Stellantis’ Free2move car-sharing service. The Fiat 500e, a global bestseller within Stellantis, has established itself as a leader in the European EV market.
Ricardo Stamatti, Stellantis Senior Vice President of the Charging & Energy Business Unit, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The partnership with Ample is another example of how Stellantis is exploring all avenues that enable freedom of mobility for our electric vehicle customers. In addition to other projects we are focused on, Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution has the opportunity to offer our customers greater energy efficiency, outstanding performance, and lower range anxiety. We are looking forward to executing the initial program with our stellar Fiat 500e.”
Ample’s CEO, Khaled Hassounah, highlighted the shared commitment to making electric vehicles accessible to a broader audience, stating, “At Ample, we believe in the importance of making electric vehicles accessible to everyone without compromises, which is the only way that we will make a significant impact on lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Stellantis’ ambitious electrification goals, its range of electric vehicles, and the commitment of its leadership make Stellantis a perfect partner in achieving our goals. The combination of offering compelling electric vehicles that can also receive a full charge in less than five minutes will help remove the remaining impediments to electric vehicle adoption. We look forward to working with Stellantis to deploy our joint solution across communities around the world.”
Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution provides an efficient and convenient method for refueling EVs, offering a green alternative that seamlessly integrates renewable energy sources. The technology allows Ample’s batteries to be easily integrated into various electric vehicle models without extensive reengineering.
Moreover, Ample’s lightweight battery swapping stations can be deployed rapidly in public areas, providing a scalable infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicle charging. The process is expedited, with an Ample-enabled EV recognized upon approach to the station, initiating a battery swap through a mobile app resulting in a fully charged battery in under five minutes.
To enhance the affordability and accessibility of Ample’s technology, the company plans to offer its battery swapping services through a subscription model. This approach aims to reduce upfront vehicle costs, ensuring customers always benefit from the latest battery technology, ultimately increasing the EV’s range and lifespan.
Stellantis’ collaboration with Ample aligns with its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, aiming for a 100% passenger car battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales mix in Europe and a 50% mix in the United States by 2030. As part of its commitment to sustainability, Stellantis aims to become a carbon net-zero corporation by 2038.
Ample’s recognition in prestigious awards, including Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech 2023, TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2023, and XPRIZE’s XB100 Top Private Deep Tech Companies of 2023, underscores the significance of their contributions to the EV industry.
