Mercedes-Benz is working with Factorial Energy on solid-state batteries

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Mercedes-Benz is working with Factorial Energy on solid-state batteries-mercedes-benz

On the way to a fully electric future, the car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz and the battery company Factorial Energy from the USA have agreed on a technology cooperation. The goal of the new partnership is the joint development of advanced battery technologies, starting with the cell and modules through to integration into the vehicle battery. The first cell prototypes are to be tested as early as next year.

“By accelerating our Mercedes-Benz strategy towards ‘Electric Only’, we have set the course for a fully electric future. We will also play a leading role in the area of battery technology. With Factorial as a new partner at our side, we are taking research and development in the field of the promising solid-state battery to the next level. To this end, we are participating in Factorial with a high double-digit million dollar amount in US dollars,” says Markus Schafer, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG; responsible for Daimler Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO.

“In this cooperation, we combine the expertise of Mercedes-Benz in battery development and vehicle integration with the comprehensive know-how of our partner Factorial in the field of solid-state batteries,” Schafer continues. According to their own statement, the two companies share the common vision of CO2 neutrality. “The constant further development of innovative battery technologies makes electromobility even more attractive for our customers,” says Schafer.

Within the next five years, the technology is to be used for the first time in small series in a limited number of vehicles. The investment gives Mercedes-Benz the right to appoint a representative to Factorial’s board of directors. “At Factorial Energy, we look forward to working with Mercedes-Benz, the inventor of the automobile,” said Siyu Huang, co-founder and CEO of Factorial Energy. “It is our goal to further develop the car with our clean, efficient and safe solid-state battery technology together.”

A technology with potential

From today’s perspective, solid-state batteries are considered to be one of the most promising technologies in the field of e-mobility. The key difference is the use of a solid electrolyte instead of the commonly used liquid electrolyte. The electrolyte is needed to transport ions back and forth between the electrodes when charging and discharging the battery. Solid electrolytes enable significantly improved battery safety and the use of new types of anodes, such as lithium-metal anodes. Compared to today’s lithium-ion battery cells, these offer almost twice the energy density. They promise an increase in range with short charging times at the same time. In addition, solid-state batteries should be significantly safer.

Factorial Energy, based in Woburn, Massachusetts, has already developed solid-state batteries that are said to offer 20 to 50 percent more range per charge and increased safety at a comparable cost to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Proprietary Factorial Electrolyte System Technology utilizes a solid electrolyte material that enables safe and reliable cell performance with high capacity cathode and anode materials. The electrolyte, called FEST by the company, has been successfully scaled into 40Ah cells and works at room temperature. For the most part, existing facilities for lithium-ion battery production can be used for production.

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2 thoughts on “Mercedes-Benz is working with Factorial Energy on solid-state batteries”

  2. Solid state batteries and large cells in general are a mistake. Well, they may be cheaper, lighter and perform better. But, believe me, the future lies in the 46 mm diameter and 80 mm short round cell. Quite similar to the mono cell used in flashlights in the past. Why round cell? Because a small car manufacturer relies on it. And there you never go wrong!..

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