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§ Private Profile · Itzehoe, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
Developer and manufacturer of high-performance lithium-ion battery cells for demanding applications, focused on defense and motorsport.
Customcells Group is an Itzehoe, Germany-based manufacturer that develops and produces customized lithium-ion battery cells with optimized energy and power density for industrial applications. The company operates scalable production facilities ranging from initial laboratory research to advanced pilot scales, having successfully completed over 2,000 distinct projects and produced more than 620,000 meters of electrodes. The firm supplies specialized energy storage solutions to clients operating within the defense, motorsport, aviation, and maritime sectors, having previously collaborated on technology development with major automotive manufacturers like Porsche. In July 2025, the enterprise emerged from insolvency proceedings through a strategic takeover executed by an investor consortium led by Abacon and Salvia, retaining a restructured workforce of approximately 100 employees. Customcells Group was originally founded in 2012 as a commercial spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute by co-founders Leopold König and Torge Thönnessen.
Customcells Group has raised $63.0M across 1 funding round.
Customcells Group has raised $63.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Customcells Group has raised $63.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Customcells Group's investors include World Fund, Vsquared Ventures, Abacon Capital, Porsche.
Customcells Group has raised $63.0M across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $63.0M Series A in December 2022.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1, 2022 | $63M Series A | World Fund | Vsquared Ventures, Abacon Capital, Porsche | Announced |
Customcells Group is a German technology company specializing in the development, prototyping, and series production of premium, customer-centric lithium-ion battery cells and systems. It serves high-performance sectors including automotive, aviation, maritime, medical, oil & gas, and aerospace, solving challenges like achieving higher energy density, compact dimensions, maximum safety, and customization for extreme conditions such as high/low temperatures, shock, vibration, and underwater use[1][2][3][4]. With over 10 years of experience, 100+ skilled professionals, 2,000+ projects, and advanced facilities in Itzehoe (R&D) and Tübingen (production), the company drives the global energy transition through scalable, innovative battery tech, including partnerships like a joint venture with Porsche and supply for Lilium air taxis[1][2][5].
Customcells Group originated in 2012 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute in Itzehoe, Germany, leveraging the institute's research expertise in battery materials and processes[2][4][5][7]. Founders and early team drew from Fraunhofer's innovation in lithium-ion tech, including partnerships like Fraunhofer ISIT for prototype development, to address the need for application-specific cells beyond standard formats[4]. Pivotal moments include expanding to automated series production in Tübingen—one of Europe's most modern facilities—and launching a joint venture with Porsche AG for high-performance cells, plus maturing battery tech for Lilium's air taxis, marking its shift from R&D spin-off to industrial leader[2][7].
Customcells stands out through its end-to-end value chain control and "Made in Germany" premium focus:
Customcells rides the electrification megatrend in mobility and energy storage, capitalizing on demand for superior lithium-ion cells amid the global push for EVs, eVTOLs, and sustainable power[1][2][3]. Timing is ideal as automotive/aerospace shift to premium batteries for range, safety, and efficiency, with Europe prioritizing domestic supply chains over Asian dominance—Customcells fills this gap via independent, high-tech production[2][3]. Market forces like rising energy transition investments and regulations favor its scalable, customizable solutions, influencing the ecosystem by setting standards in digitization (TwinTRACE), enabling startups like Lilium, and powering OEMs like Porsche to innovate faster[2][3][7].
Customcells is poised for explosive growth through site expansions (e.g., Itzehoe), new production lines, and deepening OEM ties, targeting a "premium segment" in global battery markets with lithium-ion dominance for the next decade[3]. Trends like advanced air mobility, maritime electrification, and digital twins will amplify its trajectory, potentially evolving from specialist supplier to key enabler in Europe's battery sovereignty. As it scales from spin-off innovator to volume manufacturer, Customcells will continue powering ambitious energy transitions, delivering the high-performance cells that turn electrification visions into reality[1][2][3].