The rapid proliferation and commercial success of hybrid vehicles has not only led to an increase in the demand for advanced secondary batteries, but also renewed interest in the development of high capacity traction batteries for true electric vehicles, which are believed to be the next generation of transportation for urban commuters. Longer and stronger energy storage systems are not only critical to national energy independence from foreign oil, but also important to the nation’s strong military and space program.

As part of the world's first Green Chemistry Program at UMass Boston, Profossor Qu's researchers are focused on the research and development of renewable energy. The research areas covered are:

Collaborators: Brookhaven National Lab, Naval Surface Warfare Center, UMass Lowe, ElectroChem. Inc., Aspen Product Inc.

The research is funded by the Office of Vehicle Technology, Department of Energy; Naval Surface Warfare Center; NASA (ElectroChem Inc.); and the Army (Aspen Product Group).