Thursday, December 19, 2024
Infrastructure and TechnologyLatestNews

Agratas acquires R&D facility

Advanced battery technology firm Agratas has confirmed the acquisition of its new R&D facility at Milton Park, Oxford.

The site will serve as the company’s UK technology hub which aims to strengthen its global innovation ecosystem spanning the UK, India, and the US.  

The 22,857 sq ft (2,123 sq m) facility spans three floors and includes newly built office and laboratory spaces. Situated in Oxfordshire’s innovation economy, Milton Park is home to over 250 businesses employing 9,000 people across life sciences, energy, and advanced technologies. 

The milestone will see scientists and engineers can develop battery solutions to address the evolving needs of customers and drive the energy transition forward. Its team will use the facility to pioneer new chemistries and technologies for multiple applications.

The Oxford R&D facility aims to assist Agratas’ long-term ambition to strengthen the UK’s role in global battery innovation, contribute to the green technology talent pipeline, and enhance collaboration with various renowned institutions nationwide.  

Patrick Hurley, CTO of Agratas, said:

“Our new facility at Milton Park, Oxford, is the foundation of our global innovation ecosystem, enabling us to accelerate R&D in battery technologies. This site demonstrates our commitment to delivering sustainable, high-performance products for our customers. It also underlines the vital role of R&D in shaping Agratas’ future as a global leader in advanced battery solutions.”

Tony Harper, Industrial Strategy Challenge Director at the Faraday Battery Challenge, said:

“Battery innovation and development continues apace in the UK. The Faraday Battery Challenge is pleased to see Agratas showing continued confidence in the UK battery sector with this new R&D facility. It comes at a critical juncture in our drive to create a thriving battery innovation ecosystem.”

Agratas’ investments in R&D will contribute to high-skilled job creation, attracting global talent and expanding the UK’s position as a leader in green technology innovation. By securing an existing, purpose-built site that was previously equipped but never utilised, Agratas has made a strategic and cost-effective investment, ensuring resources are used wisely to accelerate its strategic objectives. 

Dr Stella Peace, Interim Executive Chair at Innovate UK, said:

“This is welcome news for the UK battery sector, coming just over a year after the Agratas decision to invest £4 billion in creating a UK-based gigafactory.  This new R&D facility will further strengthen the UK at the forefront of battery cell development, building on the work of the Faraday Battery Challenge.”

This new facility aligns with Agratas’ mission to pioneer clean, green, and sustainable battery solutions, demonstrating the company’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and excellence on a global scale.

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