Mercedes-Benz has announced a significant milestone in its solid-state battery development in partnership with U.S. battery technology company Factorial.
Mercedes and Factorial jointly announced that they are working on a solid-state battery that they anticipate will be in production by the end of the decade.
Known as Solstice, the battery has an energy density of 0.45 kwh per kilogram (approximately 2.2 pounds), nearly double the density of current lithium-ion batteries. The companies stated that EVs utilizing the Solstice battery could achieve up to 80% more range compared to today's average.
The Solstice battery features a sulfide-based solid electrolyte and a new type of cathode design that is simpler and cheaper to manufacture than traditional cathodes. Additionally, the battery is designed to maintain performance at temperatures exceeding 194 degrees F, which its makers claim will reduce the necessity for complex and heavy battery cooling systems in EVs.
Solid-state batteries are hailed as a revolutionary technology for EVs, as they present a reduced fire risk since they're less prone to overheating, and with their high energy density, they have the potential to deliver lighter, more affordable EVs. Although the technology isn't new, scaling up production has proven to be more challenging than anticipated for automakers and battery manufacturers.
Mercedes first announced plans to collaborate with Factorial on a solid-state battery in 2021 and subsequently led a $200 million investment round the following year. Hyundai is another major automaker that has invested in Factorial.
Mercedes has also invested in Taiwanese solid-state battery company ProLogium and is researching high-silicon anodes as an alternative solution to enhance range in EVs, according to Reuters.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
