US-based Factorial Energy, which is developing solid-state battery technology for EVs, has delivered B-samples of its 106+ Ah lithium-metal solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz as part of the companies’ ongoing joint development agreement.
The cells use Factorial’s Factorial Electrolyte System Technology (FEST) platform, which includes a lithium metal anode and delivers specific energy of 391 Wh/kg. Factorial’s batteries are manufactured using existing equipment from lithium-ion battery production, requiring minimal modifications to transition to producing solid-state batteries. This approach can streamline the manufacturing validation process and significantly reduce long-term operating costs.
Factorial has shipped over 1,000 100+ Ah solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz as part of the A-sample phase. The B-samples will be integrated into modules and battery packs for testing and optimization. This phase involves validating the module and pack designs against Mercedes-Benz’s performance specifications.
“These B-sample batteries give us the opportunity to further validate this next-generation battery technology with the goal of enhancing range and performance, reducing overall vehicle costs, and offering the most desirable electric vehicles to our customers,” said Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz.
Source: Factorial Energy