STEP Electric Corporation, a Chinese national high-tech public company specializing in industrial automation, has placed its first order to install Saft's primary lithium batteries in its next-generation robots.The purpose of these batteries is to create backups of the memory in the robots' onboard positioning systems when they are powered off. Saft batteries allow these robots to remember their position when the power was interrupted, enabling them to resume operation when the power supply is restored.
The 2015 report from the National Robot Development Forum showed that in 2000, China had only 380 robot assemblies—all imported. By 2013, China already had 37,000 robots and had become the world's fastest-growing user of industrial robots. In 2014, this number had increased to nearly 56,000, of which more than 10,000 assemblies were manufactured locally in China. With over 40 robot industrial parks across the country and more than 500 robotics companies, China is the world's largest producer of industrial robots.
STEP Electric Corporation has selected Saft's LS14500 primary lithium batteries to provide more than three years of backup power to its robot positioning systems—well above the robots' estimated 24,000-hour lifespan. The LS14500 cell design is optimized for base currents of a few microamps with periodic pulses in the 5 to 150 mA range.
“This order from STEP Electric Corporation is key to Saft’s strategic development, as it gives us entry into China’s robotics sector,” said Thomas Alcide, CEO of Saft’s SBG. “It is particularly significant as China is set to become the leading player in the global robotics sector, which is projected to become a multi-trillion-dollar market by 2025.”
Saft Primary Lithium Batteries:
Saft primary lithium batteries, such as the LS14500, feature high operating voltage stability throughout the application's lifespan, along with one of the highest nominal capacities on the market. They offer a temperature range of -60°C to +85°C and provide exceptional standby performance thanks to a low self-discharge rate of less than one percent per year (at +20°C). They also offer excellent resistance to humid environments and a low magnetic signature.
Andreas Richter will replace Eugen Elmiger as CEO of the maxon Group in March 2027
The maxon Group will make a change in its executive leadership in March 2027. Eugen Elmiger will step down as CEO after 15 years at the helm of the company and will be replaced by Andreas Richter, currently Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Deputy CEO.
