Upgrade Energy

Upgrade Energy is an El Segundo, California-based energy technology company founded in 2020 that designs and assembles high-performance lithium battery packs optimized for drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Operating under the motto "Making Exotic Batteries Accessible to All," the company focuses on delivering industry-leading power density through cutting-edge silicon anode technology and SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) optimization. Their products are designed and assembled in the USA using 100% copper welding for maximum conductivity and durability, and are fully NDAA compliant - a critical requirement for defense and government drone operators seeking non-Chinese-sourced components.

Upgrade Energy offers three distinct product lines under the "Dark Lithium" brand: the GOLD line (powered by Amprius SA08 ultra-high energy density cells for maximum range and endurance), the RED line (driven by Amprius SA124 and Molicel P30B high-discharge cells for aggressive, high-thrust applications), and the GREEN line (built on Amprius SA10 lithium technology for a balanced everyday performance option). The company also produces goggle and radio batteries, as well as connectors and adapters for FPV racing, industrial heavy-lift, survey missions, and other UAV use cases. Their cell partnership with Amprius Technologies is central to their silicon anode advantage.

Upgrade Energy is significant to the US energy and defense supply chain as a domestically assembled, NDAA-compliant alternative to foreign-made drone batteries - a growing priority as the US government restricts Chinese drone and component procurement. The company has been acquired by Unusual Machines, a publicly traded US-based drone hardware company, further cementing its role in the American drone supply chain ecosystem. With approximately 11-19 employees, Upgrade Energy punches above its weight by serving mission-critical applications across commercial, industrial, and defense-adjacent drone markets.