A US startup says it can 3D print batteries to fill the 'empty space' nooks and crannies of drones and other machines, to give them a huge capacity boost.

"Even in that simplified, proof-of-concept drone, the printed battery achieves a 50 percent boost in energy density, and uses 35 percent more available volume."

Interesting idea, though no word on cost. I doubt they could compete with the economies of scale lithium-ion batteries benefit from. Then again, it isn't always about being the cheapest. The world is full of hundreds of thousands of different models of machines that might benefit from this. Some people will happily pay extra to get a 50% boost in capacity.

Material’s Printed Batteries Put Power in Every Nook and Cranny