Researchers at
Coventry University have been recognised for their pioneering work in developing the batteries of the future that will power electric vehicles (EVs) and a wide range of other applications. Three academics from the university’s
Research Centre for E-mobility and Clean Growth have been awarded prestigious Industry Fellowships by the
Faraday Institution for their contributions to advancing battery technology.
Dr Cheng Zhang is collaborating with
Elysia Battery Intelligence, part of
Fortescue, to develop next-generation physics-driven battery management algorithms. His research aims to improve the robustness and verifiability of these algorithms, bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world deployment. The goal is to ensure advanced battery models are high-performing, reliable and ready for industrial-scale application.
Dr Joe Fleming is working with
FEV to enhance battery monitoring and control systems. The project focuses on a novel approach that transmits both data and power through the same wires inside the battery, reducing complexity and eliminating the need for additional wiring. This system is designed to work with any type of battery, improving efficiency and versatility across multiple platforms.
Advancing ultrasonic sensingProfessor Alex Roberts is partnering with Hy-Met to advance ultrasonic sensing and diagnostic techniques for quality control and in-line monitoring during battery production. His work involves manufacturing cells with known defects to train machine-learning algorithms to classify faults and understand how these defects affect performance.
Professor Rohit Bhagat, director of the Research Centre for E-mobility and Clean Growth, said: “We pride ourselves on carrying out research – and bringing about innovation – that has a real-world impact. The centre’s continued work on battery technology will affect many people, businesses and industries as the need for greener and cleaner technology becomes even more prevalent. To see the Faraday Institution recognise the work of these three projects is testament to the hard work and commitment of our researchers day in, day out.”
The Faraday Institution introduced its fellowships in 2020 to strengthen collaboration between battery researchers in academia and industry. Professor Martin Freer, CEO at the Faraday Institution, said: “We are pleased to see the involvement of Coventry University in Faraday Institution programmes, including the three Industry Fellowships. These fellowships are strengthening ties between industry and academic battery researchers in the UK with the aim of establishing or enhancing collaborative research with the potential for near- and longer-term benefit to the UK battery industry and build on the flexibility of Coventry University’s facilities and team.”