South 8

South 8 Technologies is a battery technology company that has developed LiGas, the world’s first liquefied gas electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries. The patented LiGas technology replaces conventional liquid electrolytes with a proprietary blend of non-toxic, non-corrosive gases, delivering industry-leading cold-weather operation down to -60 degrees Celsius and proven high-temperature storage at +60 degrees Celsius. LiGas cells offer enhanced safety through rapid electrolyte evacuation via a thermal fuse, fast charging through high conductivity and low impedance, high voltage stability enabling new cathode chemistries such as LNMO, and reduced cost through high-manganese cathodes and faster formation cycles. The company serves defense, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), robotics, and automotive markets, with cells manufactured in San Diego, California. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in San Diego, South 8 has raised approximately $23 million in Series B funding. Investors include Anzu Partners, LG Technology Ventures, Shell, Lockheed Martin, Porsche Ventures, In-Q-Tel, DOE, Foothill Ventures, and W. L. Gore & Associates. The company has approximately 46 employees and has received a $9.2M PowerForward grant to expand manufacturing.