TechCrunch Startup News Natron’s liquidation shows why the US isn’t ready to make its own batteries and more tech news
Sep 5, 2025
A sodium-ion battery startup, Natron, has shut down after 12 years of trying to commercialize its technology, highlighting the challenges of domestic battery manufacturing in the U.S. Regulatory hurdles and funding obstacles have stymied progress. Meanwhile, the team behind AlexCodes, a tool for integrating AI into Apple’s Xcode, is joining OpenAI, signaling a shift in the tech landscape. The founder shares insights on their journey and the future of AI-driven coding tools.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Domestic Battery Manufacturing Needs Long-Term Policy
- Building domestic battery manufacturing requires decade-long, consistent industrial policy rather than short-term investor cycles.
- Without sustained government support, Western efforts will likely fall back on partnerships with established Asian firms.
Natron's 12-Year Run Ended By Certification Delay
- Natron, a sodium-ion battery startup, ceased operations after 12 years because it couldn't get UL certification in time to fulfill $25M in orders.
- Investors refused further funding, and the primary shareholder couldn't find buyers, leading to liquidation.
Sodium Promise Hurt By Lithium Price Collapse
- Sodium-ion batteries promise lower cost due to abundant sodium but face pressure from collapsing lithium prices driven by China.
- Recent lithium price drops and mature Asian supply chains make non-Asian manufacturers uncompetitive short-term.