The solution developed is intended to extend the lifespan of the batteries (second life), which CEGASA will then reuse for stationary energy storage of renewable energies.
NUUK Mobility, a Basque company specialising in global fleet management and in the design and marketing of light electric vehicles, has collaborated with IKERLAN in the research of an innovative modular lithium-ion battery system. This is a flexible, high energy density battery system that improves the autonomy and sustainability of electric vehicle fleets by offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to combustion vehicles.
Electric vehicles represent a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, but current energy storage technologies still present significant challenges in terms of cost, safety and recyclability. This new battery model makes it possible to support the deployment of electric mobility within the framework of the decarbonisation of transport, solving the needs of last mile distribution using light electric vehicles, such as electric motorbikes.
To achieve this, IKERLAN has opted for research into a multi-technological solution based on a modular and adaptable design of high energy density batteries, which allows the energy storage capacity required to be adjusted and sized optimally for each vehicle.
As the researcher and head of the project at IKERLAN explains, "it is an efficient and versatile system focusing the battery design on modularity. We have designed a battery prototype that allows us to adapt it to different types of vehicles, with different power or autonomy needs. It is also given a second life in a stationary storage application at the end of its useful life in the vehicle. All this while complying with high standards of functional safety and cybersecurity. With this development, IKERLAN and NUUK Mobility reinforce our role as key players in the transition towards a more efficient, intelligent and sustainable mobility, by committing to more customised technological solutions that optimise resources and reduce the environmental impact of electric mobility".
From NUUK, a Basque company whose clients include Correos and Burger King®, Pablo Llop, Director of Engineering, draws attention to the following: “the incorporation of specifications for the reuse of vehicle batteries in second-life applications represents a significant innovation. This development enables the extension of the battery's life cycle and enhances the recyclability of its components, contributing to environmental sustainability”.
The prototype battery system developed by IKERLAN for NUUK is currently in the technological validation phase. Laboratory tests have been carried out to ensure its reliability, efficiency and durability in different conditions of use before its installation in an electric motorbike.
A second life for batteries
A lithium-ion battery is considered to have reached the end of its useful life when its capacity is less than 80 % of its initial capacity. However, the prototype developed by NUUK and IKERLAN has the potential to extend the life of the batteries beyond their initial application in light electric vehicles. This could open up opportunities for their use in applications where energy density requirements are less demanding. In this instance, they will be repurposed for stationary energy storage by CEGASA, which has also contributed to the design of the prototype, leveraging its extensive expertise in stationary storage systems.
A strategic commitment within PERTE VEC
The research carried out by IKERLAN and NUUK is in addition to the numerous battery charger and energy storage system projects that IKERLAN has developed for companies such as Wattson Charge, CESVIMAP, Mapfre, Premium, Veltium and Cegasa.
This is a clear example of IKERLAN's technology transfer activity to the market, which represents the Centre's main activity, and which is growing year after year. It currently accounts for 55 % of the Centre's total turnover (18 million euros in 2024).
This project is part of the LIBRESS project and forms part of the global PERTE VEC strategy, promoted by the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, and is financed with European Next Generation EU funds. Led by the Renault Group, the tractor project involves an investment of over 74 million euros and the participation of 45 companies, 70 % of which are Spanish SMEs.
About IKERLAN
IKERLAN is a leading centre in technology transfer and in providing competitive value to industry. It offers integral solutions combining different technological domains in three main areas: digital technologies and artificial intelligence, embedded electronic systems and cybersecurity, and mechatronic and energy technologies. Ikerlan currently has a team of 420 people and offices in Arrasate-Mondragón, Donostialdea and Bilbao. As a cooperative member of the MONDRAGON Corporation and the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), IKERLAN represents a sustainable, competitive business model in permanent transformation. In 2024 IKERLAN celebrated its 50th anniversary, remaining faithful to its founding objective: to develop technology to improve the innovation and competitiveness of the companies in its local area.
About NUUK mobility
NUUK mobility is a company that specialises in integrated fleet management and the design and marketing of light electric vehicles. NUUK's Services division aims to provide added value by managing some of the largest delivery fleets in Spain. It offers comprehensive maintenance, connectivity, telemetry, roadside assistance, documentation management and financial advice. NUUK also supports customers throughout the electrification process, providing technical and strategic assistance. NUUK also assists with the processing of subsidies linked to electric mobility.
NUUK has an extensive catalogue of light electric vehicles aimed mainly at professional use. NUUK's objective is to consolidate its position as an innovative agent in the sector and as a key player in the transition towards more sustainable mobility.
This innovative system boosts the electric mobility of light vehicles by offering a modular solution that is adaptable to a wide range of vehicles.