Brazilian miner uncovers ultra-fast charging Niobium battery for EVs

In a seminal development for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, CBMM, a Brazilian mining company backed by the influential Moreira Salles family, has unveiled a prototype niobium-based battery that boasts ultra-fast charging capabilities. The company, which primarily supplies niobium products to steelmakers, has been actively seeking diversification opportunities to expand its revenue streams.

The unveiling took place at an event held at CBMM's Araxa plant, where the company showcased the innovative battery technology developed in collaboration with Japanese electronics giant Toshiba. The battery utilises a unique combination of lithium and niobium, a metal known for its exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion.

According to Rodrigo Amado, CBMM's executive commercial manager for the battery division, the cutting-edge technology employed in the battery allows it to be fully charged within an astonishing ten minutes when used in an electric bus. This remarkable charging speed stands in stark contrast to conventional batteries, which typically require three to eight hours for a full recharge.

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To demonstrate the capabilities of the niobium battery, CBMM has partnered with Volkswagen Caminhoes e Onibus, a Brazilian subsidiary of Volkswagen's truck division Traton. The companies will conduct initial testing on a single electric bus equipped with four of the new batteries. The test vehicle has a range of 60 kilometres (approximately 37 miles) on a single charge.

CBMM's executives are confident in the commercial viability of the niobium battery, with plans to introduce the product to the market as early as next year. This ambitious timeline underscores the company's commitment to driving innovation and addressing the growing demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions in the transportation sector.

In addition to its impressive charging speed, the niobium battery is expected to offer extended useful life compared to conventional batteries. The technology's ability to operate at lower temperatures could potentially triple the battery's lifespan, further enhancing its appeal and cost-effectiveness.

The development of the niobium battery aligns with CBMM’s strategic vision to diversify its revenue sources. The company aims to increase its battery unit revenue nearly ninefold, reaching an ambitious target of USD 100 million by 2026. This goal highlights the significant potential the company sees in the emerging battery market and its commitment to leveraging its expertise in niobium to drive technological advancements.