Mercedes-Benz has made a game-changing breakthrough that could reshape the EV industry. The German automaker is testing a semi-solid-state battery in its EQS electric sedan developed In partnership with Factorial Energy and Mercedes High-Performance Powertrains (HPP). This partnership has been a success after achieving a semi-solid-state battery that offers a staggering 620-mile range on a single charge.
Why this Battery is a game-changer?
The Mercedes’ lithium-metal solid-state battery is a game-changer because of its patented floating cell carriers which allow it to manage volume charges that occur when the battery charges and discharges. When a solid-state battery charges, its cells expand and later contract when it discharges.
To solve this, Mercedes has developed pneumatic actuators that maintain constant pressure on the cells thus ensuring long-term battery stability by reducing dendrite formation. This solves a major problem in the innovation of solid-state technology called dendrite formation, which lowers power densities and shortens lifespans.
According to Adam Allsop, the head of Advanced Technology and Merced-AMG HPP, solid-state cells need to be kept under constant pressure to reduce dendrite formation meaning that they have cracked the code to making lithium-metal solid-state batteries.
Why this Innovation is a Win for the EV Industry
Longer Range and Faster Charging
Mercedes’ lithium-metal solid-state battery pushes the EV range to over 620 miles per charge significantly reducing the number of stops for charging. Besides the increased distance, these batteries charge faster than traditional lithium-ion ones, making long road trips and daily commutes more convenient.
Greater Safety and Lighter Weight
Safety has been a major concern with lithium-ion batteries particularly the risk of exploding and fire because of the flammable liquid electrolyte inside. Mercedes’ innovation eliminates this fear by using solid-electrolyte making the batteries more stable. According to Factorial, these batteries can reduce the overall weight by 40% in comparison to the traditional lithium-ion. This weight reduction is attributed to the substitution of the liquid component with a solid component, which also helps in increasing the range.
Potential for Mass Production
Unlike the many experimental solid-state battery concepts that have not moved beyond the laboratory level, Mercedes lithium-metal technology is undergoing real-world testing in an actual electric vehicle known as the Mercedes EQS. Therefore, these battery types could be on their path toward mass production.
Other Competitors with Similar Inventions
Mercedes is among other automakers rushing to develop solid-state batteries to unlock more efficient, range and safety. Earlier this month, Hyundai suggested that it will reveal its all-solid-state EV batteries. Stellantis which also partners with Factorial announced plans to launch a feel of electric Dodge Chargers powered by Factorial solid-state batteries in 2026. In China, Chinese EV battery giants BYD and CATL are also in a race to launch solid-state batteries.
Mercedes leads the race with its lithium-metal solid-state battery already in real-time application in the Mercedes EQS. This Could be the final push that challenges skeptics to fully support EV vehicles.