Aptera Motors Corp. (“Aptera”), LG Energy Solution Ltd. and CTNS Co., Ltd. (“CTNS”) announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. This milestone marks a pivotal step forward in the advancement of solar electric vehicle (sEV) technology. Designed to harness renewable energy, Aptera’s solar electric vehicles offer a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional mobility solutions. This strategic partnership highlights the shared commitment of Aptera, LG Energy Solution, and CTNS to driving innovation and advancing sustainable transportation.
Paving the Way for a Robust Battery Supply Chain for Aptera
The MOU establishes LG Energy Solution as an exclusive supplier of advanced battery cells for Aptera’s solar electric vehicles, leveraging CTNS’s expertise in battery module and pack manufacturing. Together, the three companies aim to:
- Enhance Aptera’s production capacity through a reliable and scalable battery supply chain.
- Solidify LG Energy Solution’s market presence as a trusted supplier.
- Strengthen CTNS’s reputation as a key manufacturing partner in the U.S. market.
“This partnership represents a significant milestone in bringing our solar electric vehicles to market with the reliability and performance our customers expect,” said Chris Anthony, Co-CEO of Aptera Motors. “LG Energy Solution and CTNS bring unparalleled expertise, and we’re excited to work together to power the future of sustainable transportation.”
Under the terms of the MOU, LG Energy Solution will supply its 2170 cylindrical battery cells from 2025 to 2031, while CTNS will manufacture battery modules and packs tailored to Aptera’s proprietary design and unique specifications. These components will be seamlessly integrated into Aptera’s solar electric vehicles, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
“We are thrilled to partner with Aptera and LG Energy Solution as we push the boundaries of innovation in the electric vehicle industry,” said Ki-Jeong Kwon, Chief Executive Officer of CTNS. “This strategic collaboration will not only strengthen Aptera’s production capabilities but also marks a pivotal milestone in CTNS’s journey to become a leading manufacturer of advanced batteries in the United States, furthering our commitment to building a sustainable future through smart green technology.”
“As a global leader in the battery industry, LG Energy Solution is committed to enabling innovation that shapes the future of mobility,” said Glen Choi, Head of Marketing Department 1 of LG Energy Solution. “This partnership with Aptera is a testament to our mission to empower every possibility, supporting the realization of solar-powered transportation while delivering advanced battery technology that ensures practicality and flexibility for drivers.”
Key Highlights of the Collaboration
- Battery Cell Supply: LG Energy Solution will exclusively supply 4.4GWh of its 2170 cylindrical battery cells to support Aptera’s production ramp-up from 2025 onward.
- Manufacturing Excellence: CTNS will utilize LG Energy Solution battery cells to produce high-quality modules and packs, aligning with Aptera’s proprietary battery pack design.
- Seamless Integration: Aptera will integrate these components into its sEVs, setting new standards for efficiency and performance in the EV industry.
A Shared Vision for Sustainability
Together, the companies aim to create a cleaner energy landscape. By combining their expertise, Aptera, LG Energy Solution, and CTNS are poised to make solar-powered mobility a viable and impactful solution for a cleaner, more sustainable planet.
About Aptera Motors Corp.
Aptera Motors Corp.® delivers the world’s most technologically advanced solar electric vehicles (sEVs), made possible by breakthroughs in solar technology, battery efficiency, aerodynamics, material science, and manufacturing. Aptera is the first in a series of eco-friendly vehicles that the company plans to offer for consumer and commercial use. Its flagship vehicle, the Launch Edition, offers up to 400 miles per charge plus the ability to travel up to 40 miles a day on free power from its integrated solar panels. With only six key body components, Aptera’s unique shape allows it to slip through the air using far less energy than other electric and hybrid vehicles today. To learn more, visit https://aptera.us
About LG Energy Solution
LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220), a split-off from LG Chem, is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in revolutionary battery technology and extensive research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 58,000 patents. Its robust global network, which spans North America, Europe, and Asia, includes battery manufacturing facilities established through joint ventures with major automakers. Committed to building sustainable battery ecosystem, LG Energy Solution aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its value chain by 2050, while embodying the value of shared growth and promoting diverse and inclusive corporate culture. To learn more about LG Energy Solution’s ideas and innovations, visit https://news.lgensol.com.
About CTNS Co., Ltd.
Founded in 2017, CTNS Co., Ltd. is Korea’s leading battery pack startup, specializing in customized lithium-ion battery modules and packs. Distinguished by its proprietary smart manufacturing system and PaaS-based battery data management solutions, CTNS has successfully completed over 500 high-mix, low-volume projects, earning recognition as a “Baby Unicorn” from the Korean government in 2024. As a pioneer in the Long-Tail battery market across various industries such as military, low-speed electric vehicles, robotics, CTNS is rapidly expanding into the North American market. To learn more about CTNS, please visit https://myctns.com.