SUSTAINABLE LITHIUM–SULPHUR-BATTERIES FOR EUROPE’S
In a world moving rapidly towards decarbonisation, sustainable lithium-sulphur batteries are more vital than ever. They are at the heart of electric vehicles, tomorrow’s aircraft, and clean energy storage systems. But today’s dominant battery technology, lithium-ion, is beginning to show its limits. The materials are becoming harder to source, costs remain high, and safety is still a concern. This is why Europe is investing in a new generation of battery technologies that offer greater sustainability, improved safety, and better performance.
TALISSMAN is one of those bold initiatives. The goal is to develop sustainable lithium–sulphur batteries that are lighter, safer and more efficient, addressing the main hurdles that currently limit their widespread use. These batteries could play a major role in transforming electric mobility across Europe. The project uses abundant materials like sulphur and integrates eco-friendly processes fully compatible with existing battery manufacturing lines.
The project is aiming for an energy density of up to 550 Wh/kg, which’s up to 70% more energy per kilogram than many current lithium-ion batteries (typically around 250–300 Wh/kg), which would mean significantly more energy stored. This could result in electric cars that travel much further on a single charge. TALISSMAN also targets a production cost of less than €75 per kilowatt-hour, a key threshold that could make electric vehicles more affordable for everyone. Most batteries on the market still cost well over €100 per kilowatt-hour.
What sets TALISSMAN apart is its focus on sustainability from the outset. It uses abundant materials like sulphur and designs the batteries to be easier to recycle and cheaper to manufacture using existing production lines. The project follows a Safe and Sustainable-by-Design approach to ensure that environmental responsibility is built into every stage of development.
By delivering safer, cheaper and better-performing batteries, TALISSMAN will help bring cleaner mobility to more people. This means longer ranges, faster charging, lower energy costs and a smaller environmental footprint. It’s a step towards greener cities, healthier communities and a more competitive European industry.