We expect that up to ten winners will be selected as finalists to participate in the Workshop at Hyundai Cradle Office in November. In the unlikely event that there are less than ten applicants that meet the minimum scoring criteria, both LG Chem (LGC) and Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation (HKMC) reserves the right to select fewer finalists.
Both researchers and open innovation teams from LGC and HKMC will review the applications and select the finalists. CalCharge will facilitate the process.
New Energy Nexus is a global clean energy startup support organization and is the program manager for the EV and Battery Challenge.
Safety is our number one priority and we are monitoring closely the travel restrictions and status of COVID-19. At this point, we still plan on moving forward with the Silicon Valley workshop, however, should the situation not improve by then, we will plan to host the workshop in virtual format.
The application window opens on June 22, 2020 and closes on August 28, 2020 11:59 PM (Pacific Time).
Yes, your application will still be accepted, however, it is preferred that you have a validated concept and a working prototype (Technology Readiness Level 3+). Please be sure to describe where you are in the process towards developing a working prototype and associated challenges that you are facing.
Yes. We encourage all companies or teams who see value in partnering with LGC or HKMC to apply.
The terms and conditions can be found here.
Both LGC and HKMC are committed to supporting startups and ensuring details around technology and IP are protected, therefore both LGC and HKMC are willing to sign an NDA before the video interview process. In the application, we do not ask you to share any proprietary information regarding your technology, however, please be clear about what makes your technology special and its advantages.
Yes, once the application window closes, we will shortlist and contact the applicants to arrange a video interview.
Yes, all of the files requested on the application will be reviewed and required for a complete submission.
We define Proof of Concept as testing of a specific function and testing the technology in a live environment using LGC or HKMC facilities. In the application, we request that you specify details around 1) stage of your technology 2) intended goals of collaboration 3) timeline and budget.
No, the ten finalists are not guaranteed investments from LG Chem and Hyundai Kia Motor Company.
The type of investment vehicle will vary with each finalist and dependent on a successful POC project.
Unfortunately, we cannot specify how much will be allocated for strategic investment at this point of time. Recent investments include Forge Nano Inc. by LG Chem Technology Ventures and Gauzy, an Israeli smart-glass startup, by Hyundai Motor Company.
We will notify you by email if you have made it to the shortlist around in October.
Reasonable travel and accommodations costs for Workshop Day in Silicon Valley will be paid for by The EV and Battery Challenge. CalCharge will help facilitate the booking process.
Workshop Day will be held at Hyundai’s Cradle Office at 1335 Terra Bella Ave, Mountain View, CA.