Mercedes-Benz Unveils Solid-State EV Battery Promising 620-Mile Range on a Single Charge

Mercedes-Benz’s Solid-State EV Battery: 620 Miles on a Charge?

Mercedes-Benz is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) sector with the development of its solid-state battery technology, which promises an impressive driving range of over 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge. This new battery is being tested in collaboration with Factorial Energy, a US-based company specializing in battery technology.

The solid-state battery is expected to provide not only a longer range but also faster charging and improved efficiency compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce its first production vehicle equipped with this innovative battery by the end of the decade.

Recently, the battery was tested in an EQS sedan prototype in the UK. The design required some adjustments, primarily to accommodate the larger battery pack, which included rebuilding the battery housing. Engineers from Mercedes-Benz’s Formula 1 team in Brixworth developed pneumatic actuators for a floating cell carrier inside the battery enclosure. This mechanism helps manage the expansion and contraction of materials within the battery during charging and discharging, enhancing stability and longevity.

The EQS prototype utilizes a 12-module battery housing that offers flexibility for various configurations, although complete specifications are still pending. According to Mercedes, the new battery technology is anticipated to increase the driving range by 25%. For context, the current EQS 450+ model features a 118-kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of 352 miles (566 km).

While solid-state batteries offer numerous advantages, their widespread adoption has been hindered by reliability issues, particularly their tendency to crack during charging cycles, which can lead to dendrite formation and potential short circuits. Currently, lithium-ion batteries remain the most reliable choice for EVs. However, Factorial’s solid-state battery employs a solid electrolyte made from sulfide, which enhances safety and performance.

In addition to the solid-state battery development, Mercedes-Benz is advancing new-generation silicon carbide inverters and power electronics at AMG High-Performance Powertrain to boost performance and efficiency in upcoming vehicles.

Factorial celebrated a milestone last year with the production of its first solid-state battery cells based on its proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology). In September 2024, the company introduced the all-solid-state Solstice battery, which is projected to deliver up to 80% more driving range than traditional lithium-ion batteries, thanks to its energy density of 450 Wh/kg. Compared to standard lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries are expected to reduce overall weight by up to 40%.

The Solstice battery currently weighs 580 lbs (263 kg), which is 33% lighter than a typical 90-kWh battery. Factorial is also collaborating with major automakers like Hyundai and Stellantis to further enhance solid-state battery technology.

As the competition in solid-state battery development intensifies, notable advancements are anticipated in the coming months. Hyundai aims to launch a demonstration line of all-solid-state EV batteries in March, while Stellantis plans to introduce a fleet of electric Dodge Chargers powered by Factorial’s solid-state batteries in 2026. Additionally, leading battery manufacturers BYD and CATL are also working on their own solid-state battery solutions.

As the race for improved battery technology heats up, the future of EVs looks promising. With the potential for batteries offering a real-world range of over 500 miles, the appeal of electric vehicles may significantly increase, potentially shifting consumer preferences away from internal combustion engine vehicles.