Mercedes-Benz is steadily progressing toward series production of solid-state batteries, according to Markus Schäfer, the company’s head of development. The company also plans to launch an electric vehicle equipped with solid-state battery technology by the end of the decade.
Mercedes has partnered with U.S.-based startup Factorial Energy to bring solid-state battery technology to market. In September, the two companies introduced the Solstice, an all-solid-state battery designed to power Mercedes’ next-generation electric vehicles. These cutting-edge batteries are expected to boost driving range by up to 25%, marking a significant step forward in EV performance and efficiency.
Earlier this year, Mercedes achieved a breakthrough by launching road tests of its first vehicle powered by a lithium-metal solid-state battery. Since February, the company has been trialing prototypes in the UK, using a specially adapted EQS model fitted with the new battery system and supporting components. The advanced battery pack was co-developed by Mercedes-Benz and its Formula 1 engineering division, Mercedes AMG High-Performance Powertrains (HPP).
Mercedes-Benz believes its new solid-state batteries will not only deliver longer driving ranges but also help cut production costs. Speaking to Automobilwoche, Schäfer emphasized that existing battery technologies are no longer sufficient, stating that a fundamental shift is required. To address this, Mercedes and its partner Factorial Energy are developing batteries that use a sulfide-based solid electrolyte, which is considered both safer and more efficient than conventional designs.
The automaker estimates that the new battery could boost driving range by approximately 25%. Given that the current Mercedes EQS 450+ has a WLTP-rated range of 511 miles, the upgraded battery could potentially push that figure beyond 620 miles.
Many automakers are actively developing solid-state batteries for mainstream use, but the technology hasn’t reached full-scale commercialization yet.
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