South 8 Technologies announced it has raised $11mn in a new funding round to accelerate production of its LiGas batteries, a storage technology developed to operate in temperatures ranging from –60 °C to +60 °C. The round was co-led by Lockheed Martin Ventures and the venture capital arm of W. L. Gore & Associates, with participation from existing investors across the aerospace and automotive sectors.
The San Diego-based company plans to use the funds to reinforce its local manufacturing capacity and produce cylindrical cells based on its patented liquefied gas electrolyte. These batteries will undergo qualification with defence and aerospace clients as part of several multi-year supply agreements.
Targeted performance for extreme environments
LiGas technology replaces conventional liquid electrolytes with a blend of non-toxic gases, allowing effective performance under severe climatic conditions. The cells retain energy capacity at very low temperatures and include a thermal fuse designed to limit thermal runaway risk. This architecture is aimed at ensuring stable operation in military radios, drones, or orbital platforms.
Investors in this round also include Anzu Partners, IQT, LG Technology Ventures, Porsche Ventures, Foothill Ventures, Alumni Ventures, and Galvion, a specialist in soldier power solutions. South 8 is also working with LG Energy Solution and NASA on LiGas batteries designed for space missions.
A long-term structured project pipeline
South 8 Technologies has signed two letters of intent with Galvion and CTNS, aimed at integrating its cells into battery packs for military use in North America and allied markets. The company states it has already shipped thousands of cells to integrators and manufacturers for evaluation.
In parallel, it has secured more than $32mn in non-dilutive funding through agreements with the United States Army, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the California Energy Commission. These resources support an industrial roadmap focused on high-performance battery production for regulated and strategic markets.
