Amprius Technologies and Matternet have entered a strategic collaboration to integrate high-energy density silicon anode lithium-ion batteries into autonomous aerial delivery platforms.
The partnership has already deployed Amprius cells into Matternet’s M2 aircraft, a platform operating within urban drone delivery networks. The two companies are now extending their collaboration to develop optimized battery solutions tailored for Matternet’s next-generation aircraft platform.
Battery performance serves as a primary strategic driver for electric autonomous aircraft, directly influencing network design, asset utilization, and overall cost per delivery. Conventional graphite-based batteries face limitations in aviation due to weight constraints. Amprius’ silicon anode cells deliver up to twice the energy density of these standard alternatives, mitigating weight constraints that limit range and payload capacity.
The joint engineering effort focuses on optimizing cell selection, form factor, thermal performance, charge rate, and cycle life. By tuning the battery system around Matternet’s specific aircraft architecture and operational network model, the companies aim to improve fleet availability, expand regional service areas, and lower the cost per delivery as commercial operations scale.
Andreas Raptopoulos, Founder and CEO of Matternet, commented, “As the world’s leading urban drone delivery player, we partner with the best technology companies in the world to push what’s possible. Amprius delivers best-in-class battery performance, and in drone delivery that translates directly into commercial advantage. Every additional mile of range expands our network coverage. Every minute saved in charging increases fleet utilization. And every gram saved can translate into greater payload capacity. With Amprius, we have the opportunity to engineer that technology around our aircraft, our network model, and our cost-per-delivery targets.”
Tom Stepien, CEO of Amprius Technologies, added, “At Amprius, we are focused on partnering with category leaders in applications where battery performance changes what is possible. Matternet is exactly that kind of partner, a company with a proven certified platform, real commercial operations, and a clear path to scale. By working closely with Matternet’s engineering team, we can optimize our silicon anode technology for their aircraft, operating models, and cost-per-delivery objectives. That kind of alignment is how battery innovation translates into real-world commercial advantage.”
Following the initial deployment in the active M2 fleet, engineering teams are focusing on deeper system integration for the next-generation platform. Amprius is targeting volume production readiness for these specialized cells to align with Matternet’s projected fleet expansion plans starting in early 2027.
