Breathe Raises $21M Series B to Revolutionize Battery Performance Prediction

The Rapid Evolution of China's Automotive Market

The automotive market in China is experiencing exceptionally swift growth. New vehicle models are being introduced in as little as 18 months, creating significant challenges for established Western automotive manufacturers, whose development timelines typically exceed four years from initial concept to retail availability.

According to Ian Campbell, co-founder and CEO of Breathe Battery Technologies, this accelerated pace is intensifying the focus on both cost reduction and time efficiency. He shared this insight with TechCrunch, noting the trend is prevalent across both Eastern and Western markets.

The Central Role of Batteries

A considerable portion of this focus is directed towards batteries – the crucial components that heavily influence electric vehicle sales. Automotive companies are compelled to anticipate future market conditions, but the dynamic nature of the EV sector often renders these predictions inaccurate.

Modifying physical components can be both costly and unpredictable. Consequently, Campbell’s company is concentrating on enhancing battery flexibility through software solutions.

Breathe Battery Technologies: A Software-Driven Approach

Breathe has created a comprehensive set of tools designed to maximize battery performance for automakers and other industry players. The company recently secured $21 million in Series B funding, led by Kinnevik, as exclusively reported to TechCrunch. Additional investment came from Lowercarbon Capital and Volvo Cars Tech Fund.

This new capital will facilitate Breathe’s efforts to integrate its software earlier in the battery development process. Currently, the company offers four distinct products: Design, Model, Map, and Charge.

Charge, Breathe’s initial offering, optimizes charging protocols to either accelerate battery replenishment or extend battery lifespan.

Addressing Battery Variability

Despite stringent manufacturing controls, each battery cell exhibits unique characteristics. Some cells may generate more heat during rapid charging, while others demonstrate greater resilience to charge and discharge cycles.

Oppo, a Chinese mobile phone manufacturer, was the first to implement Breathe’s Charge software, achieving a 27% reduction in charging time. In the automotive sector, Volvo has integrated Breathe’s technology into its upcoming ES90 sedan, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in just 20 minutes. Essentially, the software allows for optimal utilization of each cell’s individual capabilities.

Predictive Modeling and Design Optimization

Breathe’s other products assist automakers and electronics companies in designing batteries and forecasting their long-term performance, guiding investment decisions. For instance, if a new battery chemistry offers lower costs and a projected longer lifespan, designers might opt to prioritize faster charging, potentially sacrificing some longevity.

“The aim is to provide a clear understanding of available parameters and the consequences of trade-offs made throughout the battery system’s development,” Campbell explained.

To achieve this, Breathe operates a laboratory in London where it conducts extensive testing on batteries under consideration by its clients. Within four weeks, the company can deliver a simulation model – Breathe Model – that predicts future performance.

The cells remain in the lab, generating further data that contributes to the development of Breathe Map, which combines simulated data with real-world results. The Design product, slated for release in the coming months, will complete the suite, providing tools to expedite battery design.

Reducing Lab Testing and Industry Parallels

The overarching goal is to minimize the extensive and often time-consuming “brute force lab testing” traditionally required for battery development. Campbell draws a parallel to the semiconductor industry, where simulation software from companies like Cadence and Synopsis has enabled close collaboration between firms like Apple and Nvidia and foundries such as TSMC.

“Our ambition is to replicate the success seen in semiconductor design through simulation software, applying it to the realm of battery technology,” he concluded.