Spear Power Systems’ Journey: Reflecting on Our History
When reflecting on the journey of Spear Power Systems, we focus on the history of a company that has consistently been at the forefront of battery technology. Since its inception, Spear Power Systems has offered advanced energy storage solutions to a range of industries worldwide, including maritime, aerospace, and various industrial sectors.
The inception of what would later become Spear Power Systems can be traced back to 2005, when Jeff Kostos and Dr. Joon Kim founded Kokam America. Their mission was to pioneer lithium-ion cell technology within the United States, which they successfully achieved with the establishment of the nation's first cell manufacturing facility in 2008.
As the company grew and formed a significant partnership with Dow Chemical, it underwent an evolution and rebranding in 2013, becoming Spear Power Systems. Since its reestablishment, Spear Power Systems has demonstrated unwavering dedication to innovation, developing a suite of new battery storage solutions and refining battery pack integration methodologies. These advancements have significantly enhanced the performance and reliability of energy systems on a global scale.
2005
Kokam America is Formed
The founders include Jeff Kostos, Dr. Joon Kim, and JJ Hong, the founder of Kokam.
2006
Most Powerful
Kokam America technology declared only battery cell powerful enough to power portable ultrasound.
2007
Li-ion Battery
Kokam America technology declared only Li-ion battery capably of starting helicopter rotor at -20°C.
2007
Kokam Co. LTD
Kokam America signs Technical License Agreement with Kokam Co. Ltd (Korea)
2007
Kokam Awarded Grant
Kokam America awarded grant to develop cell technology and pack solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense.
2008
First Facility
Kokam America opens first lithium polymer cell manufacturing facility in the U.S.
2009
Dow Purchase
Dow Kokam buys the assets of Kokam America.
2012
Commercial Production
Dow Kokam plant starts commercial production.
2013
Spear Power Systems Formed
Spear Power Systems formed by former Kokam America founders Jeff Kostos & Dr. Joon Kim.
2014
Lee's Summit Facility
Spear opens new engineering, cell distribution, battery pack assembly, and solution integration facility in Lee’s Summit, MO USA.
2015
Trident Family
Spear launches Trident family of advanced Li-ion batteries for myriad marine applications.
2018
SBIR Phase I Contract
Spear awarded SBIR Phase I contract to support Army’s need for replacement of legacy systems.
2019
Gee's Bend
Spear delivers battery to Gee’s Bend – First Emissions-Free Ferry in U.S.
2019
Niagra Falls
Spear delivers Trident solution to Niagara Falls – First All-Electric passenger vessel in U.S.
2019
Continue R&D
Spear obtains large investment from global investors to fund continued R&D.
2019
Raytheon
Spear delivers battery to Raytheon for Counter-UAS Laser System.
2020
ABB Technology Ventures
Spear obtains additional funding from ABB Technology Ventures.
2020
The New Face of the Future
Spear undergoes a transformation to encapsulate the bleeding-edge advancements in lithium-ion technology.
2020
NCE Maritime CleanTech
Spear partners with NCE Maritime CleanTech to deliver safe, environmentally-batteries to Norway.