At KRI, Inc., innovation converges with precision to redefine the frontiers of applied science, including battery technologies. For over three decades, this Japan-based contract research leader has powered breakthroughs for more than 2,000 manufacturers spanning diverse industries. KRI doesn’t merely support research and development, it engineers progress and accelerates transformation.
From analytical evaluations to prototype creation and large-scale technical problem-solving, KRI converts complex challenges into market-ready solutions. Its advanced laboratories form the backbone of this momentum. The Material Design & Application Research Lab pioneers next-generation materials that drive sustainability. The Ferro & Picosystem Lab expands the possibilities of microsystems and magnetic technologies. Meanwhile, KRI’s dedicated Energy Laboratories spearhead innovations in fuel cells and high-performance batteries, propelling the clean energy revolution forward.
What truly distinguishes KRI is its unwavering trust-first philosophy. Every project operates under uncompromising confidentiality, empowering clients to innovate with confidence and strategic freedom. Backed by elite chemistry-driven expertise and state-of-the-art technology, KRI transforms ideas into tangible impact—turning research into real-world results.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at the Renewable Energy India Expo 2025, Masanori Kitamura, Counsellor and General Manager of the Growth Strategy Promotion Department at KRI, Inc., delves into the company’s research and innovation initiatives. He also shares insights into prototype development, pilot-scale manufacturing, and the electro-tensile design principle that enhances battery fast-charging performance. Additionally, he outlines the development roadmap for KRI 2025, offering a compelling glimpse into the company’s vision for the future.
Here are the key takeaways from this insightful conversation.
Q: Could you provide details on KRI, Inc.’s research and innovation activities in the area of battery technology?
A: KRI, Inc. commands the entire spectrum of battery technology, from fine materials to full life-cycle innovation. Our core expertise originated in electrochemical NPM, but over time, we have strategically expanded our capabilities across every dimension of R&D. Today, our work spans battery management systems (BMS), safety engineering, and life-cycle optimization, reflecting a comprehensive approach to advanced energy solutions.
While much of our research traditionally focused on small-scale experiments, we are now scaling up. KRI is actively extending its core R&D beyond fundamental studies to encompass testing variations, prototype development, and larger-scale production initiatives. This evolution positions us to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and real-world application, driving the future of battery technology forward.
Q: In addition to research and innovation, does KRI, Inc. undertake prototype development and pilot-scale manufacturing activities?
A: Yes, we have recently acquired SCI Corporation, a company specializing in prototyping and pilot-scale production. This strategic addition strengthens our operational capabilities and reinforces our end-to-end innovation ecosystem.
At present, we showcase only one company within our ecosystem display. However, we actively collaborate with several other partners, particularly in software technologies and advanced analytical systems. These alliances enable us to integrate high-level data analysis and digital solutions into our R&D framework, ensuring seamless innovation from concept to commercialization.
Q: Could you describe the electro-tensile design principle and its role in augmenting the fast-charging capability of batteries?
A: We have already developed the core elemental technologies required to achieve rapid and high-speed charging. At the heart of this innovation lies the optimized design of both the electrode and the overall cell architecture.
Our process began with refining the electrode materials and improving the fabrication methods to enhance efficiency and performance. Through continuous optimization, we have successfully validated the feasibility of our advanced cell design.
This integrated technology package is not only adaptable for ultra-fast charging systems, but also enhances long-life battery performance, ensuring both speed and durability in next-generation energy solutions.
Q: What does the development roadmap for KRI’s 2025 edition look like?
A: We work with a diverse range of clients, and each brings unique challenges and insights from the market. By consolidating these perspectives, we have distilled the collective voice of the industry into a clear strategic vision.
This vision is reflected in our technology roadmap, which captures how global stakeholders perceive the future of lithium-ion technology. In essence, this roadmap serves as tangible proof of both market expectations and our commitment to leading the next wave of innovation.
