Next-generation battery project launches to advance Europe’s green mobility
The European research project focused on developing next-generation lithium-sulphur batteries for heavy-duty vehicles has officially launched, supporting the EU’s transition to cleaner transport.
The ANGeLiC (ALD-protected Next Generation Lithium-Sulphur Battery Cell) project, funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, brings together 11 partners from 10 countries for a 42-month research initiative. The project addresses a key challenge in Europe’s move towards carbon-neutral mobility: creating safer, more efficient batteries designed for trucks and buses.
Addressing a transport challenge
Heavy-duty vehicles represent just 2% of vehicles on European roads, yet account for 28% of transport-related CO₂ emissions. With new EU regulations requiring a 90% reduction in emissions from these vehicles by 2040, the development of improved battery technology has become increasingly important.
“No single organisation can develop breakthrough battery technology alone. That’s why we’ve assembled this European consortium,” says Marta Putrinš, ANGeLiC Project Coordinator at CIVITTA Foundation, which is leading the project. “ANGeLiC will work to unlock lithium-sulphur battery potential for electric mobility. By replacing expensive, supply-chain-vulnerable materials like cobalt and nickel with abundant sulphur, we’re working towards Europe’s strategic independence in clean energy technology.”
Technologies under development
ANGeLiC will develop several battery technologies, including atomic layer deposition (ALD) and molecular layer deposition (MLD) techniques to protect battery components, sensor technologies for real-time battery monitoring, and sustainable polymer electrolytes. The consortium will also work on roll-to-roll manufacturing processes for lithium anodes.
“Understanding how battery materials evolve over time is key to building better energy storage,” explains Thomas Miller, project partner from University College London. “Through the ANGeLiC project, we are developing advanced techniques to ‘see inside’ working lithium-sulphur batteries, helping us design more stable, higher-capacity, and sustainable next-generation systems.”
Performance targets
The batteries being developed have the following performance targets:
- 500 Wh/kg energy density – higher than current lithium-ion technology
- Enhanced safety with reduced fire and explosion risks
- 800+ charge cycles for extended battery life
- Cost reduction to under €75 per kWh – to make electric heavy-duty vehicles economically competitive
- Full recyclability to support circular economy principles
Expected outcomes
Beyond technical developments, the project aims to strengthen the EU’s strategic independence in battery technology, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport, and create new business opportunities. The work developed through ANGeLiC will support EU climate law requirements whilst promoting sustainable mobility and improving the viability of electric transport solutions for businesses and citizens.