Molyon, a Cambridge-based startup pioneering next-generation lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, has raised €4.3 million ($4.6 million USD) in its first funding round. The round was co-led by IQ Capital and Plural, with the funds directed toward scaling its team and manufacturing at its pilot facility in Cambridge.
Molyon addresses limitations of traditional lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, including low energy density and reliance on scarce materials like cobalt and nickel. Instead, the company’s innovative Li-S batteries leverage abundant sulfur and its proprietary molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) cathode technology to achieve breakthrough performance.
Developed through 15 years of research at the University of Cambridge, the technology enables energy densities of 500 Wh/kg—double that of conventional Li-ion batteries—while maintaining stability over hundreds of cycles.
“This is a transformative moment in battery innovation,” said Dr. Ismail Sami, CEO and co-founder. “By overcoming the chemistry challenges of sulfur, we’re creating batteries that deliver higher performance and address critical sustainability concerns.”
Targeting High-Impact Applications
Molyon initially aims to deploy its lightweight and high-density batteries for drones and robotics, where weight and range are key advantages. Long-term, the company plans to expand into the transportation sector, potentially doubling the range of electric vehicles and opening new markets for energy storage solutions.
Backing from Leading Deep Tech Investors
Plural partner Carina Namih emphasized the potential impact: “Molyon’s breakthrough technology could revolutionize the performance and range of batteries across diverse applications, from drones to EVs and energy storage.”
Max Bautin, General Partner at IQ Capital, highlighted the team’s expertise: “The Molyon team combines deep technical knowledge with commercial acumen, positioning them to disrupt the battery industry and unlock massive market opportunities.”
A Bold Vision for the Future of Energy Storage
With funding from investors and research grants, Molyon is poised to accelerate its R&D and begin manufacturing at scale. As the global demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage grows, Molyon’s lithium-sulfur technology could redefine the battery landscape, providing cost-effective, high-performance solutions for a carbon-conscious world.