Mercedes’ New Solid-state EV Batteries Offer Up to 80% More Range

Factorial and Mercedes’ solid-state battery “breakthrough” could end range anxiety, according to Electrek.

Factorial also claims the new technology will lower costs, increase safety, and reduce the weight of EVs for enhanced efficiency.

With a “breakthrough energy density” of 450Wh/kg, Factorial says its tech is 33% smaller than the competition and can extend EV range by up to 80%.

In 2022, Mercedes invested in US-based Factorial’s $200-million fundraiser, alongside several other automakers including Hyundai. Development of the company’s proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) platform has been underway for years, and forms the basis for the latest solid-state battery cells, which arrived with Mercedes earlier this year.

Safer Design Addresses Solid-State Tech Concerns

The sulfide-based system reportedly addresses the concerns surrounding flammable liquid electrolyte designs, and, according to Factorial, maintains stability when operating over 194°F (90°C).

That’s a huge deal when one of the main challenges facing solid-state tech is a risk of overheating and combustion in hot weather, alongside charging difficulties and other problems in extreme cold.

That safer design may also mean lower prices, as safer technology means no need for cooling systems within the battery pack itself.

The new tech is expected to launch by the end of the decade, with Factorial stating it aims to unlock “more than 600 miles of range” and reduce weight by up to 40%.

Markus Shafer, Mercedes’ chief tech officer, said that Solstice will help the brand “set new standards in range, cost, and performance.”

Mercedes and Factorial aren’t the only companies working on solid-state technology. Yesterday Toyota announced that its plans to develop and produce solid-state batteries in Japan have been certified.

Companies including Nissan and Panasonic are also hoping to boost domestic production in Japan in a bid to limit the country’s reliance on South Korea and China.

If this technology lives up to the hype, it could be a game changer, providing the answer to enhanced efficiency and ending range anxiety.