SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Atlanta lab where he’s developing a groundbreaking solid-state battery that could revolutionize
clean energy and electric vehicles.
Lonnie Johnson, the brilliant mind behind the iconic Super Soaker, may be on the verge of his most impactful invention yet—one that could transform clean energy and electric vehicle performance.
After 25 years of tireless, largely self-funded research, Johnson is now prototyping a cutting-edge, all-solid-state battery. According to Forbes, this new battery is not only safer and more powerful than traditional lithium-ion versions, but also more affordable to produce. Its implications could be massive, paving the way for electric vehicles with longer ranges and power grids with improved energy storage capabilities.
Operating out of his Atlanta-based laboratory, Johnson is preparing to break ground later this year on a 70,000-square-foot headquarters and expanded research facility.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, Johnson has a résumé as remarkable as his inventions. A graduate of Tuskegee University with degrees in mechanical and nuclear engineering, he has worked with institutions such as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and Strategic Air Command. His technical contributions span deep space missions like Cassini and Galileo and the development of stealth aircraft systems.
Johnson leveraged the success of his Super Soaker—a toy that earned him a spot in the National Toy Hall of Fame and accolades from Popular Mechanics—to fund his energy startup, Johnson Energy Storage. Over two decades, he has focused on creating a glass, metal, and ceramic-based solid-state battery. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, Johnson’s design is non-flammable and doesn’t
require complex cooling systems.
The battery is currently undergoing third-party testing with UL, and early results are promising. “We’ve gone down a lot of rabbit holes,” Johnson told Forbes. “It’s been a tough scientific journey.”
Despite the challenges, Johnson has secured $15 million in investments—$10 million more than his initial goal—including $1 million from Innovate Alabama in 2023.
His strong ties to Tuskegee University remain central to his mission. The university is home to the Dr. Lonnie Johnson Technology Research & Incubation Center and continues to supply top-tier talent to his labs.
As Johnson puts it: “We’re eager to share this with the world so people can truly see the benefits. This isn’t just better technology—it’s also cheaper to make.”
With innovation, perseverance, and a vision for a cleaner future, Lonnie Johnson may once again be on the brink of changing the game.
