SES AI projects record Q1 revenue driven by strong ESS demand

SES AI (NYSE:SES), a global leader in the development and manufacturing of AI-enhanced high-performance lithium-metal and lithium-ion batteries, provided a robust business update for the first quarter of 2026 on Wednesday, April 1.

Based on preliminary financial results, the company expects to report quarterly revenue significantly above published consensus estimates.

For the first quarter of 2026, SES AI anticipates revenue in the range of $6.3 million to $6.5 million.

This performance is primarily attributed to strong sales within its Energy Storage Systems (ESS) segment, specifically driven by product revenue from UZ Energy.

This segment currently represents the company's largest near-term revenue engine.

The projected totals also include approximately $1.5 million in revenue from orders originally slated for the fourth quarter of 2025, which were delayed due to temporary logistics constraints that have since been resolved.

Beyond the ESS segment, the company reported smaller but growing contributions from its drone battery division and its AI-driven subscription services.

The diversified revenue stream underscores SES AI's transition from a pure-play research firm to a multi-vertical manufacturer and software provider.

Reflecting confidence in its operational trajectory, SES AI affirmed its previously issued full-year 2026 revenue guidance of $30 million to $35 million.