The 2021 MEXT Minister’s Science and Technology award’s Development Category has been presented to GS Yuasa. The honour is for the innovation of lithium-ion batteries in space technologies.
The prestigious award was presented to the global battery manufacturer for its work on lithium-ion space cells, which are used in satellites and spacecraft. It recognises organisations that have made a significant contribution to Japanese society and Japan’s economy through revolutionary research and development or inventions.
GS Yuasa supply a range of satellites, rockets, and the International Space Station (ISS) with battery cells and were the first manufacturer to exceed four million Watt-hours of energy storage in Earth orbit… more than all other manufacturers combined.
GS Yuasa batteries are chosen for the extreme environment of space because of their exceptional quality and reliability, which has been achieved through a research and development program that started back in 1997.
Working alongside space agencies, and using new cell lifespan prediction techniques, GS Yuasa applied its innovative approach to produce outstanding durability, capacity and the lifespans required to make space use possible… at a time when most lithium-ion batteries were only suitable for household use.
The battery manufacturer was chosen to supply the ISS, the largest artificial object in space, in 2012. Last year saw the fourth successfully delivery and installation of its cells during space walk which was broadcast live.
GS Yuasa Lithium-ion Space Cells
James Douglas European Group Marketing Manager for GS Yuasa Europe said: “We’re delighted and very proud that GS Yuasa lithium-ion space batteries have won this highly prestigious award. The fact that our cells are so widely used and have achieved this recognition is a real testament to their durability and lifespan… after all it is not an easy task to change a battery if it fails in space!
“With such a central role in enabling television, communication, the internet and GPS along with a whole host of other services, the satellites our batteries power really do help billions of people across the world to go about their daily lives.
“Back on planet earth, our lithium and lead-acid vehicle and industrial batteries are well known for their quality and reliability… and our customers are also excited to learn they might just contain a little bit of star dust!”
Jon Pritchard, General Sales & Marketing Manager at GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK added: “It’s an honour to have been presented this phenomenal award. At GS Yuasa we strive for quality, reliability and performance in everything we do, so to have achieved this accolade reflects the hard work of all our dedicated staff around the UK and Europe.”
GS Yuasa’s Lithium-ion batteries are also found in some of the most demanding applications around the world, including the Shinkai deep sea submarine and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
To find out more about GS Yuasa lithium products visit www.yuasa.com
Date published: 11 August 2021
