Battery cell technology has revolutionized the way we power our lives. With the increasing demand for energy storage in various applications such as electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and consumer electronics, the development of advanced battery technologies has become a crucial aspect of modern engineering. One such company that is at the forefront of this innovation is CUSTOMCELLS. With a focus on research and development, the company has made significant strides in improving the efficiency, safety, and lifespan of special lithium-ion battery cells.
“The battery offers companies numerous opportunities for differentiation. The ability to differentiate, however, depends on developing and manufacturing high-quality battery cells. That’s where we come into play. By developing and manufacturing premium battery cells that set standards in terms of energy and power density, we enable our customers to innovate in a variety of areas,” says Dr. Dirk Abendroth, CEO of CUSTOMCELLS. Headquartered in Itzehoe, Germany, CUSTOMCELLS follows a strategic approach to technological vertical integration, collaborating with “best in class” companies in the value chain, from material manufacturers to plant constructors to recycling specialists.
The Beginning of a New Era
Eleven years ago, CUSTOMCELLS emerged as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute, founded by Leopold König and Torge Thönnessen. The founders recognized the immense potential of lithium-ion technology in transforming mobility and industry. Over the years, CUSTOMCELLS has established itself as a reputable development and production partner in the automotive industry. One notable achievement is the Cellforce Group joint venture, formed with Porsche AG, aimed at developing the next generation of high-performance battery cells for the road. “Our technology is already successfully proving itself on the road. In addition to that, we are Lilium’s cell supplier and see enormous potential in the aviation sector,” shares Dr. Abendroth.
CUSTOMCELLS offers a comprehensive portfolio of products and services covering the entire value chain, from prototyping to production. “As a pioneering company, we strive to set the standards for the future of battery cell technology. Our high-performance battery cells aim to create a new premium segment in the global market, characterized by exceptional energy and power density,” pinpoints Dr. Abendroth. Through this effort, CUSTOMCELLS upholds the promise of “Made in Germany” in the battery industry. “We are committed to ensuring that the next decade is dominated by lithium-ion battery cell technology, and we will spare no effort to achieve this goal,” adds Dr. Abendroth.
Disrupting the Market
CUSTOMCELLS leverages its technology expertise, industry knowledge, and highly motivated team to provide better value to its customers. The company understands its clients’ unique needs and excels at addressing specific challenges. “As we expand our Itzehoe site in northern Germany, we will provide even more comprehensive support in all aspects of process development. We will jointly build efficient and innovative production lines for high-performance battery cells,” claims Dr. Abendroth. CUSTOMCELLS is leading the TwinTRACE joint project, which brings together industry and research partners to develop efficient production processes through a digital twin. With TwinTRACE, project partners raise the quality and traceability of battery cell production to a world-leading level, setting a standard for smart digitization in the industry.
“We have established ourselves as a trusted partner in the automotive industry and many other sectors. We have expanded our customer base and now successfully serve clients across diverse industries,” says Dr. Abendroth. CUSTOMCELLS has sustained continuous growth over the years. As an independent premium brand, the company is renowned for providing customized solutions to a wide range of industries and continuously pushing the boundaries of what is technically possible through digital technologies. At CUSTOMCELLS, the team is committed to going the extra mile and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Dr. Abendroth explains, “The battery cell technology industry demands innovative solutions that have never existed before. We can inspire our customers by creating new and enabling solutions that did not exist before.” Projects such as cell production for Lilium or the joint venture with Porsche AG are a testament to CUSTOMCELLS ‘ innovative spirit and its ability to create cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients.
The Power of People
“CUSTOMCELLS is powered by people,” says Dr. Abendroth. CUSTOMCELLS values its team, and the ideas generated by them are the driving force behind its success. Dr. Abendroth adds, “Outstanding performance can only be achieved if the chemistry and the overall interaction are right. That is why we rely on a culture that also allows mistakes — to learn from these mistakes.” CUSTOMCELLS’ new building in Itzehoe has been designed to support new working methods by offering spatial flexibility. CUSTOMCELLS is committed to building a team passionate about creating a sustainable future on the road and in the air. “And yes, we are hiring. We are open to anyone who shares our values and wants to contribute to our mission,” pinpoints Dr. Abendroth.
Today, CUSTOMCELLS recognizes the potential and opportunities for its technology in various markets, particularly in aviation. As part of its growth strategy, the company is currently expanding their existing sites and exploring additional locations, including in the United States. CUSTOMCELLS is also investing in digitalization and AI to support this growth, exemplified by their TwinTRACE project. The company is also proud to collaborate with notable partners and investors, such as World Funds, Vsquared Ventures, Primepulse SE, Porsche Ventures, 468 Capital, and Abacon Capital which are leaders in the climate tech and investment space.
To reach out to its customers across the globe, CUSTOMCELLS follows a comprehensive approach towards communication and awareness building, which involves actively engaging with customers and the general public. Despite being an established player in the industry, the company still operates with the agility and flexibility of a start-up, enabling it to capitalize on opportunities as they arise. The company is actively exploring digitalization and smart technologies while positioning itself as a key player in the aviation industry. “As one of the leading companies in the development and series production of special lithium-ion battery cells, we are setting the pace for a comprehensive technological transformation,” concludes Dr. Abendroth.
For More Info: https://www.customcells.de/