General Motors Ventures has announced a $10 million investment in Forge Nano, a Colorado-based materials science company specializing in atomic layer deposition (ALD). Alongside the investment, GM and Forge Nano have entered a strategic partnership to explore ALD applications for GM’s electric vehicle (EV) battery technology.
Atomic layer deposition is an advanced surface engineering technique that applies ultra-thin film coatings to battery materials, enabling precise control of chemistry and structure at the atomic scale. This collaboration will utilize Forge Nano’s proprietary “Atomic Armor” technology to develop thin-film coatings that aim to improve battery performance while reducing production costs. As part of the partnership, Forge Nano will create prototype lithium-ion battery cells at its Thornton, Colorado headquarters to demonstrate its cutting-edge technology’s potential.
The investment reflects GM’s commitment to advancing EV technology through innovation. By partnering with Forge Nano, GM aims to enhance battery efficiency, reduce manufacturing costs, and make electric vehicles more accessible to a wider range of consumers. The collaboration also supports Forge Nano’s goals of expanding its battery material coating capabilities and establishing a stronger presence in the semiconductor industry.
“GM Ventures’ primary goal is to bring disruptive technology into the GM ecosystem to improve products and processes,” said Anirvan Coomer, Managing Director of GM Ventures. “Forge Nano’s Atomic Armor technology has game-changing potential for our battery materials. They have already demonstrated the ability to expand cathode capabilities, which is the most expensive battery cell component. This could unlock benefits for both customers and the business.”
Paul Lichty, CEO of Forge Nano, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Forge Nano’s mission is to make better materials for a better world. General Motors’ investment will allow us to further enhance battery material performance and durability, while allowing us to expand our footprint in other key areas – like semiconductors. We look forward to working closely with GM to enhance battery cell performance for future electric vehicles.”
This investment is the latest step in GM’s ongoing efforts to stay at the forefront of EV innovation, as the automaker seeks to improve battery performance and create a more sustainable and affordable EV lineup. Through this strategic collaboration, both GM and Forge Nano aim to set new benchmarks in battery technology, paving the way for next-generation electric vehicles.
