South 8 Technologies, an advanced battery company based in San Diego, announced it has executed a $9.2 million funding agreement under the PowerForward Battery Manufacturing Grant Program, aimed at expanding its domestic battery production capabilities.
The grant is part of a broader $67 million initiative designed to accelerate zero-emission vehicle battery manufacturing in California, support job creation, and strengthen local economic development. The program is administered by CALSTART with backing from the California Energy Commission and support from New Energy Nexus and the UC Berkeley Labor Center.
Through this agreement, South 8 Technologies will expand its San Diego headquarters to scale production of its proprietary liquefied gas electrolyte, known as LiGas. The company plans to reach annual production capacity of 100 MWh for electrolyte and 2 MWh for lithium-ion battery cells.
South 8’s LiGas technology represents a departure from traditional lithium-ion battery electrolytes, offering improved safety, enhanced performance in extreme temperatures, faster charging, and longer cycle life. The platform also supports a fully domestic supply chain, as its gas-based components are produced at industrial scale within the United States.
The expanded manufacturing capacity will serve customers across defense, aerospace, and mobility sectors, including global automotive manufacturers working on development and qualification programs for next-generation battery systems.
The project was selected through a competitive evaluation process based on technical merit, readiness for manufacturing scale, economic impact, and alignment with California’s zero-emission transportation goals. The initiative reflects continued investment in U.S.-based battery innovation and infrastructure.
KEY QUOTES:
“We’re excited to scale production of our advanced LiGas electrolyte and high-performance, resilient battery cells. Expanding our San Diego operations is a critical step in strengthening the domestic battery supply chain in support of our customers in defense, aerospace, and zero-emission vehicle deployment.”
Jungwoo Lee, CEO, South 8 Technologies
“PowerForward was created to scale battery production in California while delivering skilled jobs and economic benefits to local populations in support of the state’s zero-emission transportation goals. South 8’s innovative project in San Diego reflects the program’s goals of building a robust domestic supply chain, strengthening in-state battery manufacturing, and advancing technologies that support zero-emission transportation. We’re proud to support their work.”
Phoebe Bisnoff, Deputy Director Of Battery Manufacturing, CALSTART
