Factorial Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:FAC) has received its first commercial order for battery cells in the aerospace industry, marking an important milestone as the company expands the application of its solid-state battery technology beyond the automotive sector.
The order follows successful integration and flight testing of the company’s lithium-metal battery cells in an unmanned aircraft platform.
U.S. drone manufacturer places initial order
The commercial order was placed by an unnamed U.S.-based drone manufacturer.
Factorial will provide its high-energy-density lithium-metal battery cells, which will be incorporated into battery packs by a U.S.-based battery pack integrator before being deployed in aerospace applications.
The company said the agreement comes after the batteries successfully completed both system integration and drone flight testing.
Flight tests demonstrate improved performance
According to Factorial, the drone trials delivered a flight range improvement of more than 30% compared with existing battery technology.
Chief Executive Officer Siyu Huang highlighted the speed of the project’s development.
“In only six months, we designed a new product, built integration partnerships on three continents, completed flight testing, and secured a first purchase order,” Huang said.
Aerospace expansion complements automotive business
Factorial said it expects the initial order to be followed by additional commercial opportunities within the aerospace sector.
The company continues to advance its battery technology for automotive applications, where it has previously completed road testing with Mercedes-Benz that demonstrated driving ranges exceeding 1,200 kilometres on a single charge.
It has also conducted laboratory testing with Stellantis using 77Ah battery cells integrated into a Dodge Charger Daytona demonstration vehicle.
Strategic investors support growth
Factorial’s investor base includes several major automotive manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Hyundai and Kia.
The company is also backed by IQT, a not-for-profit strategic investor affiliated with the U.S. national security community, reflecting growing interest in advanced battery technologies across both commercial and defence-related markets.