Sunita Somvanshi
Mercedes-Benz and its partner Factorial Energy have reported a breakthrough towards the series production of solid-state batteries.
These batteries, which feature solid instead of liquid electrolytes, promise faster charging times, higher energy density, and overall improved performance. They are also considered safer, more durable, and reliable compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Mercedes recently highlighted a significant advancement in their collaboration with Factorial Energy. Markus Schäfer, Development Chief, mentioned on LinkedIn, “In a world first, we have now taken delivery of B-samples of Factorial’s 106+Ah lithium-metal solid-state battery cells. We will integrate these into modules and battery packs for extensive testing and optimisation against our strict performance specifications. ” These B-samples mark the “world’s first announced B-sample delivery of solid-state battery cells to a global automaker,” according to Factorial Energy.
Factorial Energy promises that their batteries will provide nearly 1000 kilometers of range, weigh 40 percent less, and require one-third less space than lithium-ion batteries. Siyu Huang, CEO and co-founder of Factorial, stated, “We are thrilled to advance to the B-sample phase and to mark this milestone with a global automotive leader like Mercedes-Benz,” said Siyu Huang, CEO and Co-Founder of Factorial. “This swift progression from A-sample to B-sample delivery in under a year highlights Factorial’s rapid innovation capabilities and we continue to push the envelope to accelerate the adoption of solid-state batteries in the automotive sector. As a U.S. cell maker, we believe our high energy density cell will help build more efficient and sustainable vehicles that will set new standards for electric vehicle range, cost and performance globally,” he added.
At the end of 2021, Mercedes and the Stellantis Group formalized a technology partnership with Factorial. The German automaker invested a high double-digit million amount in US dollars, and the former Mercedes-Benz CEO Dieter Zetsche now serves as an investor and senior advisor to the US startup. Markus Schäfer added, “We are committed to leading in innovative battery technologies, and our partnership with Factorial is a significant part of this strategy.”
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Factorial utilizes its “FEST” technology (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) for these cells, featuring a lithium-metal anode aimed at drastically reducing the weight of electric vehicles and increasing range. This technology also aims to shorten charging times and enhance safety. They also disclosed that the energy density of these cells is 391 Wh/kg, although it is not specified whether this is at the cell or system level. Factorial’s solid-state batteries are produced using existing facilities from lithium-ion battery production.
