S6 Ep6: Chris Kruger, Founder, AYK Energy

AYK Energy’s Chris Kruger is known as one of the founders of marine battery technology, having worked first in the electric car industry before moving to marine. He developed the battery for the first hybrid propulsion ferry, Princess Benedikte, and the first fully electric ferry, Ampere, in 2012.A native South African now based in Andorra, he established AYK Energy in 2018, building its first factory in 2023 China to be close to the centre of the battery industry supply chain, which he says is 10 years ahead of Europe.In this conversation, Chris draws on his long experience in the battery industry to explain some of the operational challenges associated with using the technology in a harsh maritime environment. He also gives an overview of AYK’s recent and ongoing projects, including a ground-breaking contract with Frances’ Brittany Ferries.He addresses safety concerns in using batteries onboard ships and he explains why he supports the use of lithium iron phosphate batteries in this operational environment. He also looks at what might be on the horizon for batteries as the technology advances.Achieving commercial viability is also the name of the game for technology companies – whether they be mature businesses or start-ups – and Chris offers some key insights into the processes and challenges of setting up manufacturing operations overseas and moving from concept to production.With his deep knowledge of the battery sector, he also has some interesting perspectives on how the industry is evolving, the business climate for new entrants, and whether some market consolidation may be on the cards.For more information, go to www.aykenergy.com