SES AI Corporation, global developer and manufacturer of high-performance Li-Metal batteries, announced Brian Krzanich has joined its board of directors as an independent director, effective January 26, 2024. Krzanich formerly served as chief executive officer at both Intel Corp. and CDK Global Inc.

The expansion of SES AI’s board comes a month after the company announced that it entered into the world’s first B-sample Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with a major automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for its Li-Metal battery, the company said.

SES AI added it also is developing a machine-based deep learning platform that will be used at the company’s new Electrolyte Foundry; a new form-factor for its Li-Metal cells; and is exploring opportunities in the emerging Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market.

“Brian brings extensive leadership experience in the commercialization of next-generation technologies for automotive applications,” said Qichao Hu, founder, chairman and CEO of SES AI. “His expertise will be particularly valuable as we seek innovative ways of developing and implementing AI and machine learning in our material discovery and manufacturing processes – advancements that will ultimately improve the performance and safety of our batteries.”