During the six months, the feasibility study ran, a special Rimac team focussed on how to maximise this EU funding support opportunity. The results were outstandingly positive and encouraging.
There were 9 specific tasks specified for this project. Please find bellow the summary of the work done and the main results achieved.
T1.1. Definition of all possible market niches for product acceptance
Our objective was to test the acceptance of our products with sports car and supercar manufacturers as well as the racing teams with whom we have collaborated in the past or who have expressed great interest in potential collaboration. We have also done a detailed business potential matrix which forecasts the revenue potential of the Rimac Automobili Hybrid Battery Pack.
T1.2. Testing of the Hybrid Battery Pack on a smaller scale in order to identify all possible results and applications
We carried out computer calculations and simulations to forecast and predict expected outcomes. In order to determine battery behaviour, each cell type (energy and power) was tested in a small scale test as well as in the actual vehicle. The performance over time was, also, measured.
T1.3. Determination of Hybrid Battery Pack dimensions and components
We investigated the battery cells which could be integrated into the two packs based on the common output efficiency benchmark. Thorough elaboration of the complete system was given with detailed advantages of the Hybrid Battery Pack.
T1.4. Calculation of the material and development costs
The small scale testing has advanced our understanding and has allowed us to draw up a detailed Bill of Material for the items required. It included a product name, needed quantity, manufacturer as well the price per product which allowed the estimation of the cost saving per Hybrid Battery Pack.
T1.5. Identification of saving potential with the optimization of production process
With the detailed elaboration of the Bill of Material (BoM), we have identified new saving potential to meet, if required, new customer expectations in higher volumes. Production method changes have also been taken into consideration.
T1.6. Benchmarking against currently available components
Three examples illustrated to show how Rimac Automobili product compared to other solutions. Such comparisons included a power to weight ratio comparison, energy density comparison as well as module adaptability comparison.
T1.7. Calculation of the payback time
A combined cost-benefit analysis and the financial forecast was calculated for the Hybrid Battery Pack production and demonstrated in the technical report.
T1.8. Intellectual property rights, licensing and contracting
Research was conducted on trademarking, copyright and patent protection of the Hybrid Battery Pack for regional and global protection. Types of protection were looked into detail as well as specialist for patent protection, contracting and licensing consulted on costs and opportunities.
T1.9. Commercialization strategy
Product potential was established. Commercialisation strategy for the Hybrid Battery Pack was mapped in detail with steps which would ensure all aspects of product production and placement. A Royalty matrix has been devised in anticipation for potential partnership opportunities.