Ex-JLR boss Bollore named director of UK-based battery start-up

Ex-JLR boss Thierry Bolloré has been named board director of UK-based battery software start-up About:Energy.

In his first role since stepping down from the British car maker – formerly known as Jaguar Land Rover – at the end of last year, Bolloré will lead the 18-month-old firm's automotive strategy, which claims to be able to “unlock the potential of battery technology”.

It does this through its unique software algorithm, called the Voltt, which reduces battery development time and costs through optimising battery design and parts supply. 

Currently, the firm works across aerospace, manufacturing and automotive sectors, but Bolloré’s appointment shows a push to become more present in automotive. The brand’s customers already include “several of the world’s leading premium automotive companies”, although their identities have not been revealed.

Bolloré, also a former CEO of the Renault Group, said: “Our industry is entering a crucial phase of its transition to electrification, with battery modelling and development playing an increasingly important role in every OEM’s future product development strategy. 

“In just 18 months, About:Energy has made remarkable progress with its pioneering approach attracting investment, research grants and secured significant OEMs as customers. I believe that as demand for batteries continues to grow, About:Energy is in a prime position to supercharge industry and I am delighted to join the board at this pivotal time.” 

About:Energy co-founder and CEO Gavin White said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Thierry to our board. His experience, credibility and industry knowledge will prove invaluable as we continue to scale and support a growing number of customers.”

He added: “Batteries are critical for industries such as automotive, manufacturing and aerospace but are often considered a barrier due to the time and cost to develop. 

“By leveraging state-of-the-art measurement technologies, our platform can substantially reduce development costs and decrease time to market with integrated advanced virtual designs.”