Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cell manufacturer American Battery Factory (ABF) has formed a partnership with Chinese manufacturer KAN Battery to build a battery cell test line at its facility and accelerate its production launch in the US.
As part of the collaboration, ABF will ensure the latest statistical training and equipment for its employees, refine the production of battery cells and launch its subsidiary ABF China.
At the facility in China, ABF will work together with KAN Battery to commission the first 1 GWh factory line to produce high-capacity prismatic cells offering outputs of 105 to 300 Ah. The 750,000-square-foot line will allow the company to quickly begin production at scale. ABF will supply some factory-produced battery cells to off-takers such as Lion Energy prior to its full production of American cells.
By refining the manufacturing process while preparing for the construction of its first gigafactory in Tucson, Arizona, ABF will combine its expertise in machinery, battery chemistry and business analysis at launch.
The company expects to complete the first phase of the Tuscon plant in the second half of 2026. The site will include the company's headquarters, an R&D innovation center and the first 2 x 2 GWh factory module. ABF battery cells are designed to last 10,000 life cycles or an average of 20-30 years.
“The United States is 10 years behind the leaders in battery cell production. To develop the domestic supply chain, we must work with the best in the world,” said John Kem, President of American Battery Factory. “Working with KAN Battery gives us the opportunity to bring expertise back to the US and train US workers with the best new manufacturing and chemical solutions available to date. This will help bring our line of lithium iron phosphate prismatic cells to our US gigafactory for full production. “
Source: American Battery Factory