Cuong Nguyen is the senior manager of cell engineering at Rivian, a U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive technology company.
Standing at the intersection of scientific discovery and real-world innovation, Cuong Nguyen brings over a decade of expertise in lithium-ion battery technology to Rivian’s push for advanced energy storage solutions for electric vehicles. As senior manager of cell engineering, he focuses his efforts on improving the organization’s battery performance by advancing electrode materials, optimizing electrolytes and enhancing silicon-based anode technology. These are critical factors in extending the energy density, cycle life and overall efficiency of electric vehicle applications.
Nguyen’s career began with his early research at Hanoi University of Education and Chungnam National University, which laid the foundation for his deep understanding of electrochemical reactions and material synthesis. In South Korea, he collaborated with LG Chem to develop next-generation electrolytes for flexible cable batteries. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Rhode Island, he pioneered the research on solid-electrolyte interphase formation in silicon electrodes and formulated novel electrolyte solutions. Some of these findings have helped double the cycling life of silicon anodes compared to industry-standard formulations. This breakthrough has since influenced battery performance standards in research institutions and commercial labs worldwide.
His move to the energy sector was a natural evolution of his expertise. After a stint as an electrolyte scientist at HK Battery Technology, Nguyen joined Rivian. Ever since, he has become a crucial part of the company’s battery innovation efforts. Rising through the ranks from battery cell research engineer to senior manager, he has helped define the company’s various battery technology roadmaps, contributing to advancements in material development, testing methodologies and performance optimization. His hands-on experience with anode and cathode coatings, post-mortem electrode surface analysis and electrochemical techniques allows him to connect laboratory research with large-scale engineering solutions.
This ability to translate scientific innovation into practical engineering solutions has made him an invaluable asset in Rivian’s pursuit of cutting-edge electric vehicle technology.
Nguyen’s contributions extend beyond Rivian’s labs, influencing the global battery research community. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications and numerous conference presentations, his work has been an instrumental piece for best practices in battery engineering worldwide. His expertise in silicon-based anode continues to shape the future of energy storage, ensuring that electric vehicles push past conventional limits.
His active collaborations with academic institutions and participation in global panels are helping accelerate innovations in battery chemistry and sustainable energy solutions. By sharing insights on the challenges and breakthroughs in energy storage, Nguyen has become a recognized voice in shaping the future of electric mobility.
