Former GM executives bring experience to Nanoramic

Both new members held key positions at General Motors (GM): Wagoner as former Chairman and CEO, and Burns as former Corporate VP of Research and Development.

Wagoner and Burns will assist Nanoramic in revolutionising the lithium-ion battery market with its Neocarbonix electrode technology. Using Neocarbonix, battery manufacturers can reduce costs by 20% and improve energy density by 30% compared to current battery designs, substantially increasing the range and affordability of EVs.

Eric Kish, CEO of Nanoramic, said: “Both Rick Wagoner and Larry Burns have vast experience across the EV and transportation sectors, as well as with lithium-ion energy storage systems and strategic planning. They will play a key role in driving the adoption of Neocarbonix and providing EVs with superior energy recovery, charge time, acceleration, braking, and performance in extreme environments.”

Wagoner had a 32-year career at GM and is best known for his pivotal leadership as the company’s Chairman and CEO. Since retiring from GM in 2009, he has been active as a board member and advisor to multiple public and early-stage companies. He currently serves as Chairman of Invesco and a board member of ChargePoint, Excelitas Technologies, and Graham Holdings.

Burns was Corporate VP of Research and Development for GM from 1998-2009, during which he was responsible for advanced technology development, product portfolio, and strategic planning. In 2011, Burns was elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering for his leadership and contributions to automotive technologies.

He currently advises organisations such as Kitson & Partners, Goodyear, and Niron Magnetics on the future of mobility, manufacturing, energy, and innovation. Previously, he was a consultant to Waymo, Professor of Engineering Practice at the University of Michigan, and Director of the Programme for Sustainable Mobility at Columbia University.

Wagoner said: “I am pleased to be an investor in, and advisor to Nanoramic. I am a big supporter of the auto industry’s move to EVs and believe the technology that Nanoramic has developed can play a significant role in supporting that direction by offering smart ways to reduce battery cost and improve quality and reliability.”

Burns said: “Nanoramic has deep and proven material science and nano-material manufacturing capabilities. Combined with strong leadership and a focused strategy, it is transforming energy storage and thermo-material technologies. I am looking forward to helping this exciting company realise its full commercial potential.”