LG Energy Solution is launching a research competition
LG Energy Solution is launching the Battery Innovation Contest 2026. Universities and research institutions worldwide can submit proposals for new battery technologies by December 6. Topics of focus include battery materials, battery management, and AI.
Since 2017, the competition has supported around 50 research projects.
Image: LGES
The South Korean battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution is once again seeking research projects with potential for commercial application through its Battery Innovation Contest (BIC). Now in its tenth edition, the competition is open to universities and research institutions worldwide. Applications can be submitted starting October 29 via the company’s own innovation platform, BRIDGE.
The contest includes two categories. In the so-called “Thematic Call,” LG Energy Solution outlines specific research topics identified by its own product development teams. According to the company, the number of these topics has been significantly increased for this year’s edition. They range from battery materials and cells to battery management systems (BMS) and applications of artificial intelligence.
In addition, scientists can submit their own research approaches from various fields of battery technology through the “Open-Topic Call.” LG Energy Solution aims to address specific challenges in the industry while also embracing new ideas from research.
LGES has supported around 50 research projects since 2017
To protect research ideas, LG Energy Solution uses a two-stage application process. Initially, applicants only need to submit a brief project outline. Detailed research proposals are requested only after a preliminary screening. This prevents applicants who are not selected from having to disclose extensive details about their research in the first round. Project submissions and subsequent management are handled through the BRIDGE platform.
Since the competition began in 2017, LG Energy Solution has supported around 50 research projects, according to its own statements. Particularly promising approaches can then be further developed in the so-called Frontier Research Laboratory (FRL). This involves joint research activities between the battery manufacturer and universities and research institutions, which receive additional financial funding and technical support.
As an example of past achievements, LG Energy Solution cites a physics-based model for accelerating calculations in battery management systems, for which a patent application is currently underway. The company also refers to research on a long-lasting solid-state battery that can operate at room temperature. The results were published in 2019 in the journal _Science_.
While supporting external research projects, LG Energy Solution is also working to expand its own battery portfolio. The South Korean manufacturer plans to supply innovative 46100 round cells for future Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles. Production could begin in 2027, with deliveries scheduled for 2028. These plans have not been officially confirmed yet.
Through this competition, LG Energy Solution aims to strengthen collaboration between industry and academia and accelerate the transition of new technologies into practical use. Research proposals can be submitted via bridge.lgensol.com until December 6, 2026.