Boulogne-Billancourt, France & Pittsburgh, PA – October 30, 2025
Ampere, the Renault Group’s EV and software-focused division, has announced a strategic Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Stratus Materials Inc., a leading innovator in high-energy, cobalt-free cathode materials. This partnership marks a significant step in Ampere’s ongoing pursuit of next-generation battery technologies for the Renault Group’s electric vehicle (EV) fleet.
The collaboration will explore the integration of Stratus Materials’ advanced LXMOTM cathode active materials (CAM) into EV-format battery cells at Ampere’s state-of-the-art Battery Cell Innovation Lab in Lardy, France. Designed to anticipate technological breakthroughs, this facility underscores Ampere’s commitment to strengthening Renault Group’s competitiveness in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Cobalt-Free Batteries with High Energy and Safety
LXMOTM-based batteries stand out for their compelling balance of energy density, cost efficiency, and safety. They offer energy densities comparable to—or even exceeding—those of conventional Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) batteries, while delivering abuse tolerance and cost advantages similar to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) technologies.
At the system level, LXMOTM batteries enable pack-level energy densities that can be up to twice those of traditional NMC- or LFP-based packs. This combination of high energy, safety, and cost efficiency opens the door for EVs that are more affordable, have longer range, and maintain robust safety standards—advantages that resonate with both automakers and consumers.
Strategic Evolution of Ampere’s Battery Technology
The adoption of cobalt-free LXMOTM represents the next phase in Ampere’s battery strategy. Following the deployment of NMC for high-density performance and the upcoming introduction of LFP into Renault vehicles in 2026, cobalt-free materials offer the promise of a third-generation solution that harmonizes performance with sustainability.
Nicolas Racquet, VP Vehicle & Powertrain Engineering at Ampere, emphasized the significance of this approach:
“Ampere is looking closely at high-energy cobalt-free materials because of their potential advantages compared to incumbent cathode materials. Stratus’s LXMOTM CAMs have gained Ampere’s attention because of their unique and compelling combination of performance, cost, safety, and cycle life.”
Jay Whitacre, CEO of Stratus Materials, added:
“We are thrilled to have LXMOTM selected by Ampere and Renault Group as a candidate for deployment into their future vehicle portfolio. Our progress to date with Ampere has been strong and we look forward to delivering on the ongoing JDA and moving together toward full vehicle deployments.”
Driving Innovation and Sustainability
Battery materials, cells, and packs are critical to the performance, affordability, and environmental footprint of today’s electric vehicles. By evaluating LXMOTM technology, Ampere is positioning itself at the forefront of EV innovation, embracing solutions that not only advance vehicle performance but also reduce environmental impact and simplify supply chain complexity.
This partnership reinforces Ampere’s mission: to pioneer electric mobility solutions that are safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible, ensuring that Renault Group remains a leader in the EV revolution.
