At Cine Gear 2024, we got a first look at the Core SWX MoXIE Solo Sodium Ion battery system, and I have to say it impressed me. Core SWX states it’s not a gas generator killer, but I think it’s on its way to becoming one. Let’s face it, gas generators, while being extremely useful for remote location power, require special handling due to using gas, and they are loud and toxic. We have all been waiting for battery solutions on set that can come close to performance and affordability.
The MoXIE Solo offers the very first Sodium Ion-based battery in the cinema industry, the “Kodiak” cell (2kWh), and the LifePO4 “Vita” cell (3kWh). The two distinct battery cell options provide flexibility for different environmental conditions and power needs.
Companies have been looking into sodium-ion batteries as an alternative to lithium-ion for quite some time. The biggest problem with lithium-ion batteries is sourcing the actual lithium, as it is scarce, and the supplies are insufficient to meet the increasing demand.
The biggest problem with Sodium Ion batteries in the past was their inability to store much power in a small form factor. They were always larger and heavier than Lithium Ion batteries. That has now changed, and the energy density is pretty much on par with lithium-ion batteries.
Making Sodium-Ion batteries is way more environmentally friendly and easier, as you don’t have to source rare materials.
The other big benefits that Sodium Ion has over Lithium Ion are:
- Long life cycle life
- Very fast charging
- Practical power density
- Better safety
- Thermal stability
- Cheaper to make
- Work in higher and lower ambient temperatures.
One of the biggest benefits for the film and TV industry is thermal stability, which means they are safe to transport without risk of fire. It is probably only a matter of time before we start to see Sodium Ion camera batteries.
MoXIE Solo
The MoXIE Solo is being touted as an innovative powerhouse packed into a compact unit that delivers a 3.6kW AC output with simultaneous DC outputs. It was specifically tailored for film and video production, and it is claimed to be a reliable, portable energy solution for on-location shoots, remote film sets, and emergency backups.
The Moxie system offers several key advantages over low-cost battery e-generators:
- Portability: The MoXIE Solo is compact and portable, making it easy to transport in a car or small production van without needing heavy equipment or team lifts. It’s like having a power unit that’s always ready to go wherever you need it.
- High Efficiency: The MoXIE Solo has a high DC to AC conversion rate, capturing over 95% of the battery capacity during conversion. That means you get more power out of every charge, unlike some low-cost generators that waste precious energy.
- Silent Operation: Operating silently, the Moxie Solo can be kept close to your production equipment without causing noise interference. This reduces tripping hazards from longer cable runs, making your setup safer and more convenient.
- Direct DC Output: The MoXIE Solo provides DC output options (15v, 28v, and 48v), allowing you to power devices directly from DC power. This maximizes efficiency by skipping the AC conversion process altogether.
- Serviceability: Fully serviceable, the Moxie system ensures longevity and reduces the total cost of ownership over time. It’s designed to be a long-term solution you can rely on.
- Versatility: With multiple outputs and the ability to connect additional cell packs, the Moxie Solo is a versatile power solution for various applications. Whether you need more power or specific voltage outputs, the Moxie Solo has you covered.
- External Charge Capabilities: Unlike current options in the market that require the entire unit to be charged once the battery is depleted, the Vita and Kodiak cells can be charged externally freeing up your MoXIE unit for continuous production.
The MoXIE Solo features an AC generator with internal charge, an aluminum cage with wheels for durability and mobility, and multiple DC outputs. Its pure sine wave power output is stated to guarantee the optimal performance and longevity of sensitive electronic devices.
It offers a 3.6Kw AC output (2x NEMA-20R, 1x NEMA TT30R), along with two outputs each for 15v(XLR 4p), 28v(XLR 3p), and 48v DC(2p speakON), all capable of handling up to 16A.
The unit features a 5” touchscreen display that provides real-time information on battery status, output levels, and system diagnostics.
The MoXIE Solo’s capacity can be easily increased with expansion ports for additional cell packs. The Vita and Kodiak cell packs have external connectors that can be linked to the Moxie Solo’s expansion ports using a secondary cable. This cable plugs directly into the external connection on the cell packs and then into the Moxie Solo’s expansion ports. The external connection on the cell packs also serves as the external charge port when not charging through the Moxie Solo system. This setup allows for seamless integration and expansion of battery capacity, providing additional power for extended use and flexibility in charging options.
It is also said to be whisper-quiet which makes it suitable for close-proximity use on film sets.
It weighs 121lbs / 54.88 kg with the cell installed. Core SWX states that this allows for easy transport without heavy equipment.
Once the cells are disengaged and removed, the unit weighs only 59lbs / 26.76 kg. Its sustainable design enables transport by passenger vehicles and traditional couriers, reducing logistical burdens.
The Vita cell is a 3kw LifePO4 battery with up to 4,000 cycles and a temperature range of -4 to 140°F. The Kodiak cell is a 2kw Sodium Ion battery, fully recyclable, and operates efficiently in temperatures as low as -40°F.
Both the Vita and Kodiak cell packs can be charged in 2.5 hours using the Moxie Solo’s 20A 110v AC input. By the product launch in Q4, the Kodiak cell will be able to charge in just 30 minutes externally.
The MoXIE Solo has a specially designed-battery tray with a protected connector block. The connector block securely receives the battery connections, which are recessed under the battery pack. This design ensures that the entire connection is sealed once the pack is connected, providing a robust and secure attachment for reliable operation in various conditions.
Price & Availability
The target price for the MoXIE Solo system by the time of shipment in Q4 2024 is $5,495 USD. The Vita cell pack will be available for $2,995 USD, and the Kodiak cell pack for $2,495 USD. Core SWX are eager to work with customers to get as many Moxies out as possible.
Core SWX will collaborate with industry rental partners to offer these cell packs for rent across North America, ensuring fresh power at your destination.
