Porsche Bets on South 8 to Solve EV Winter Woes

South 8 Technologies' pressurized, liquefied gas electrolyte could cut lithium-ion battery prices by 30 percent. Porsche Ventures, which invested in South 8, saw this innovation. The car maker see's this as an important venture as cold weather makes electric car heaters use more electricity, and batteries charge slower as electrolytes thicken.

Porsche hopes the South 8 can improve low-temperature performance of EVs, according to TechCrunch. South 8 CEO Tom Stepien said Porche wants Porsche wants to "keep their finger on the pulse" on the project's direction.

How Does South 8's Tech Work?

The South 8 technology shrinks expensive battery production components. Gas under pressure in the cell prevents electrolyte freezing until -100 degrees Celsius, lower than most solvents. According to Stephen, South 8's tech retains 75% of energy capacity at -40 degrees Celsius. "Everything else is brick."

Pressurized electrolyte works exclusively with cylindrical cells like Teslas, Rivians, and Lucids, not prismatic or pouch cells like other OEMs. Future uses for prismatic cells are imaginable, but pouch cells are not.

For cylindrical cells, South 8's electrolyte requires stronger end caps and a revised top cap with an injection valve. This necessitates new equipment, which can be a challenge for gigafactories. However, Stepien expects huge long-term savings.

The tech startup's approach might accelerate coal production by decreasing the days-long forming cycle. Stepien claims a 90% time reduction, noting that their standard protocol is 100 hours for customer cells. He said they noticed no performance change beyond 10 hours.

2026 Porsche Cayenne EV Update; Charity Race Coming Up

Separately, Porsche plans to launch an electric Cayenne alongside the updated combustion version in 2026. The Cayenne EV will share the PPE platform with Audi's Q6 and Q8 e-tron, offering crossover powertrains and a Macan Electric-inspired appearance.

The Cayenne EV's engine is unknown; however, it may be based on the Macan, maybe with more power. The EV Cayenne might reach 60 mph in under 3 seconds with extreme power choices, but performance may suffer, per Carscoops.

The electric Cayenne will have elegant lines and futuristic headlights, just like the Macan Electric. The V8-powered combustion Cayenne and the EV version will be displayed in showrooms by late 2026.

Meanwhile, the Porsche Penske Motorsport works team will enter three Porsche 963 race cars in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2024, extending their tradition. On June 15 and 16, three hybrid cars will compete for sporting and charitable purposes.

At the French endurance classic, Porsche will give 750 euros for each work car lap. 'Racing for Charity' sponsors three charities that assist severely ill children and their families, the car company stated in its media release.

Porsche has historically prioritized social responsibility in sports, culture, environment, social affairs, science, and education. In 2023, the corporation funded 150 projects globally, and it continues this commitment through 'Racing for Charity' in racing.

This year's Le Mans beneficiaries are Kinderherzen Retten e.V., Interplast Germany e.V., and the Ferry Porsche Foundation.

Kinderherzen Retten e.V. assists Freiburg University Hospital perform life-saving heart surgery on 10 children from El Salvador, Syria, Albania, and Afghanistan. Interplast Germany e.V. provides vital medical assistance in Tanzania and Mozambique. The Ferry Porsche Foundation extends assistance to severely sick children with severe conditions and their families.