New York (HedgeCo.net) – Hedge fund investor Nanostart’s holding Nanosys Inc. has received funds from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), as part of the DOE’s larger mission to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced vehicle technologies through targeted programs aimed at increasing vehicle efficiency. The new innovations will enable Electric Vehicles (EVs) to travel 300 miles on a single charge.

“We are honored the DOE has selected Nanosys for this grant,” said Jason Hartlove, president and CEO of Nanosys. “The future of a clean energy economy depends on increased adoption of electric and hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles. Until such vehicles are able to achieve substantial operating range on a single charge with the economics of combustion vehicles, acceptance will be limited to early adopters. The commercialization of architected material solutions like SiNANOdeTM provide the breakthroughs needed to progress on the path to achieving those goals.”

The agency has set a target for bringing the cost of lithium-ion batteries down to $250/kWh and increasing capacity to 300 miles per charge for the next generation of EVs.

“The Department of Energy is investing in new advanced technologies that will significantly improve vehicle fuel economy, save consumers money, and create skilled jobs for Americans,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu in a DOE press release. “Investments in the next generation of autos will strengthen our economy and lead to a more fuel-efficient, clean energy future.”

In addition to EVs, Nanosys is currently working with domestic and international battery manufacturers to improve lithium-ion battery capacity using SiNANOdeTM in batteries for laptops and tablets, smart phones and other electronic devices.

Editing By Alex Akesson