Car making giant Stellantis and boffins from French universities have worked out a way of packaging an EV charger inside the battery, which it is claimed gives a 10% energy efficiency improvement and 15% power gain from the same battery size. The tech is currently being tried in a prototype Peugeot e-3008.
The IBIS technology is also said to make more space available and simplify maintenance by eliminating the need for a separate charger and inverter in the car by embedding them directly into the battery. The system works regardless of chemistry and supports both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC), supplying electric energy directly to the motor while simultaneously feeding the vehicle’s 12V network and systems.
In addition to the efficiency and performance improvements, the IBIS system is said to reduce vehicle weight by around 40 kg and frees up to 17 litres of space. Early results also show a 15% reduction in charging time.
The easier servicing also means there is enhanced potential for second-life battery reuse as the battery, charger and inverter are combined into one easily removable unit.
Phase 2 of the project began in June 2025 with continued support from the French Government. The focus is now shifting to real-world testing under real-world driving conditions, which could pave the way for the integration of IBIS technology into Stellantis production vehicles by the end of the decade.
Launched six years ago, IBIS is a collaboration between academic research and industry. Coordinated by Stellantis, the project unites a multidisciplinary team of 25 engineers and researchers.
Beyond automotive, the IBIS architecture could holds promise for a wide range of applications, including rail, aerospace, marine, and data centres.
