This week on the TAGLine podcast, we sat down with Shamara Ray, the Group Event Director for The Battery Show North America and South, for an exclusive look ahead at the second annual Battery Show South in Charlotte, North Carolina (April 22nd and 23rd). If you're working in the world of batteries, EVs, or energy storage, this conversation is your roadmap to the industry's cutting edge!
From Atlanta to the Queen City:
Shamara shared the story behind the show's new temporary home. While they had a successful launch in Atlanta, the scheduling conflict with the FIFA soccer tournament meant a move was necessary. Fortunately, Charlotte was a natural fit. As a central location in the booming "Battery Belt," the Southeast US has become a strategic, growing hub for EV and battery manufacturing. Charlotte is attracting global investment and a skilled workforce!
The Power of Collaboration: Battery + MD&M South
The biggest unexpected benefit of the move is the exciting co-location with MD&M South.
Shamara views this partnership as a "no-brainer," creating one powerful event where attendees can experience innovations across both the energy/EV and medical manufacturing industries. The synergies are massive, spanning manufacturing, engineering services, and educational content, offering incredible cross-collaboration opportunities for all attendees!
Innovation, Startups, and the Road Ahead:
What truly "charges up" Shamara about this industry is the collaborative atmosphere dedicated to problem-solving, clean energy, and sustainability. The show is the premier place to see the latest technology and talk directly with the minds behind it.
We discussed key trends driving the industry forward, including the rising importance of AI, sustainable manufacturing practices from mining to recycling, grid storage solutions, and advancements in fast-charging technology.
Shamara also emphasized the vital role of startups.
The Battery Show actively provides a platform for early-stage companies to present their next-generation technology alongside established OEMs and industry giants. This close proximity fosters essential collaboration, investment, and ingenuity that drives the entire ecosystem forward!
Maximizing Your Time in Charlotte:
For first-time attendees, Shamara stresses the importance of pre-show engagement. Be sure to download the event app (available about four weeks out) to customize your schedule, communicate with exhibitors, and book meetings in advance to maximize your time on-site. Attendees can expect dynamic live product showcases, a welcome reception with a live band, and a two-day, four-track conference to explore what's next for the future of battery, EV, and energy storage.
Don't just read about the future of energy, be part of shaping it!
Listen to the full episode with Shamara Ray to get all the details and make sure you're registered for The Battery Show South on April 22nd and 23rd!