Electric vehicle batteries that can no longer efficiently power cars could be repurposed to supply energy for homes, farms and remote communities through a project at Flinders University.
Researchers are working with Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited, ResourceCo and other industry partners to develop a commercially viable pathway for repurposing end-of-life electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle batteries.
Supported by a Green Industries SA grant, the repurposed batteries could be used for lighting, water pumping, energy storage and reducing reliance on diesel generators.
The project is one of 21 industry collaborations showcased at the $19 million Flinders Factory of the Future at the Tonsley Innovation District.
The university said the showcase is intended to highlight how the Factory of the Future supports industry partners to test, develop and commercialise new technologies.
It also featured FORGE Medical Devices, a $12 million initiative backed by the Australian and South Australian governments. Flinders University said FORGE is building on nearly two decades of the Medical Device Partnering Program and aims to support 30 new ideas and 17 technologies towards clinical trials and commercialisation.
Turning ideas into Australian-made products
Built on the former Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited assembly site, the Factory of the Future brings together researchers, businesses, government and students to address manufacturing challenges and develop commercial opportunities.
The facility is supported by $10 million from the Australian Government and $9 million from the South Australian Government. Flinders University said its areas of expertise include automation, artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing, digital twins, prototyping, testing and workforce development.
The university said the Factory of the Future also connects students with industry and provides training intended to help businesses adopt new technologies.
Supported by the South Australian Department of State Development, the $4 million Manufacturing Growth Accelerator is designed to help small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt advanced technologies and improve productivity.
Factory of the Future – By the numbers (Federal and State MGAs)
Flinders University said the program has engaged with 250 South Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs), assessed 50 SMEs for further support or a tailored roadmap, and started 37 accelerator projects with 37 SMEs.
