The BMW Group is investing, through its venture capital fund, BMW i Ventures, in U.S start-up Lilac Solutions which has developed an innovative sustainable lithium extraction process.
It has developed and patented an ion exchange technology that will significantly improve efficiency, costs and sustainability by extracting lithium from brine resources, which are natural deposits of salt water.
The technology has already been proven in initial field pilots and must now demonstrate that it can be scaled and industrialised in the mid-term.
The process could then be used with brines worldwide, even if they have a low lithium content.
Lilac Solutions, has also announced the final close of its $150 million Series B financing. Other investors include SK Materials, Presidio Ventures (a Sumitomo Corporation Group Company), MCJ Collective, and Earthshot Ventures.
Wolfgang Obermaier, Senior Vice President Indirect Goods and Services, Raw Materials, Production Partners at the BMW Group, says: “Innovative technologies provide better, more sustainable and more efficient access to raw materials. By investing in startups, we are speeding up development of new technologies, stimulating competition and providing impetus that will make it easier for young companies to access the market. By investing in Lilac Solutions, we are supporting technological progress in the field of lithium extraction, with a focus on responsible and sustainable methods.”
Dave Snydacker, CEO of Lilac Solutions, comments: “The lithium industry must innovate to meet the needs of battery and automotive companies, otherwise the transition to electric vehicles will be delayed. We’re delighted to add strategic partners who deeply understand each facet of lithium supply and support our mission of ramping production.”
Lilac Solutions is based in Oakland, California.
Keyword: BMW Invests in U.S. Sustainable Lithium Technology Start-up Lilac Solutions