Mercedes-Benz to launch its first solid-state battery car in 2022

Stellantis and Daimler AG have signed supply agreements with Massachusetts-based solid-state battery maker, Factorial Energy. The investment amounts are not disclosed, but Daimler representatives speak of hundreds of millions of USD. The first Mercedes-Benz EV with a solid-state battery is scheduled to hit the test track next year.

Factorial Energy, a startup firm founded six years ago, was the world’s first to design a 40 Ampere-hour traction battery for electric cars based on solid-state power cells. Its patented electrolyte formula grants 20-50% more driving range compared to conventional lithium-ion designs with liquid electrolytic solution inside.

Furthermore, these new batteries can be produced at the same factory equipment as the existing lithium-ion ones, which cuts technological upgrade costs for automakers.

According to CEO Siyu Huang, receiving investment from major corporations would enable Factorial Energy to focus on perfecting the technology. For their part, Stellantis Group and Daimler AG believe this partnership would expand their options on the eco-friendly car market of tomorrow.