Mercedes-Benz and US-based battery firm Factorial have announced a revolutionary breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) technology.
Their new generation of solid-state batteries could increase EV range by up to 80%, a potential game-changer in the competitive EV market.
High energy density with advanced safety
The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Factorial, established in 2021, has led to the development of batteries with an impressive energy density of 450Wh/kg.
These advanced cells employ a dry cathode design, which enhances efficiency while reducing the environmental impact of battery production.
Factorial aims to integrate these cutting-edge batteries into vehicles by the end of the decade, promising significant advancements in EV performance.
Factorial’s sulphide-based all-solid-state electrolyte system also addresses safety issues, as it is less prone to the flammability risks associated with traditional liquid electrolytes.
With operating temperatures exceeding 90°C, the new batteries demonstrate thermal stability, potentially reducing the need for extensive cooling systems within EVs.
Lightweight design could slash costs
These solid-state batteries not only extend vehicle range but could also revolutionise vehicle design. Mercedes-Benz CTO Markus Schaefer highlighted the technology’s 40% energy density improvement over current flagship cells. "The Solstice solid-state battery technology offers new levels of efficiency, range, and safety," Schaefer stated.
Additionally, these lighter batteries could enable Mercedes-Benz to switch from costly aluminium to cheaper steel bodies, resulting in significant cost savings while maintaining vehicle integrity.
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to advancing battery technology was further cemented with a US$200 million (around NZ$320 million) investment in Factorial in 2022.
The luxury carmaker recently received B-samples of the Solstice solid-state batteries, marking another step toward the commercialisation of this cutting-edge technology.