Key Takeaways
- Stellantis and Factorial Energy have validated an automotive-grade semi-solid-state battery cell, marking a significant step towards commercialization.
- The new battery cell offers a high energy density of 375 Wh/kg, rapid charging capabilities, and improved range retention in extreme temperatures compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
- While currently more expensive than lithium-ion cells, cost reductions are anticipated as production scales up and partnerships for mass manufacturing develop.
Breakthrough in Battery Technology
Massachusetts-based startup Factorial Energy has achieved a crucial milestone in electric vehicle (EV) technology by validating a semi-solid-state battery cell in collaboration with Stellantis. This advancement is part of Factorial’s ongoing efforts to transform the landscape of automotive power sources. Solid-state batteries, which utilize a solid or gel-like electrolyte instead of the liquid chemical found in traditional lithium-ion cells, are praised for their potential to increase range, enhance charging speeds, reduce weight, and maintain performance in extreme temperatures.
The newly validated 77 amp-hour cell boasts an impressive energy density of 375 watt hours per kilogram (Wh/kg), surpassing the average energy density of current lithium-ion batteries, which ranges between 200-300 Wh/kg. With the ability to charge from 15-90% in just 18 minutes at room temperature, these advanced cells can discharge at rates of up to 4C, enabling significant performance enhancements for electric vehicles.
Stellantis has selected the Dodge Charger Daytona as the testing ground for this cutting-edge technology due to the potential performance benefits these cells could offer. Operating effectively in temperatures from -22°F to 113°F, these semi-solid-state batteries are expected to perform better in colder climates compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, which can experience significant energy loss under similar conditions.
The partnership between Stellantis and Factorial dates back to 2018 when it was still part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. During their collaboration, they transitioned from developing smaller 20 Ah cells to larger 100 Ah versions, eventually leading to the current 77 Ah validation. Factorial CEO Siyu Huang described the challenges encountered during this scaling process, referring to it as “production hell,” which involved optimizing operations to overcome various manufacturing hurdles.
It’s important to note that while these Stellantis cells are semi-solid-state, they represent an interim solution rather than an all-solid-state battery (ASSB). They utilize polymer components and focus on stabilizing the anode, which plays a crucial role during charging. Despite differences in design, both the Dodge Charger Daytona and a test vehicle, the Mercedes EQS, use similar cell chemistry tailored for their unique objectives—efficiency for the EQS and performance for the Daytona.
The benefits of solid-state technology extend beyond enhanced performance. The lighter weight of these cells could lead to a significant overall reduction in vehicle weight, with estimates of weight savings ranging from 500 to 2,000 pounds, potentially reducing production costs. Each pound saved in weight is estimated to cut costs by around $5, offering substantial savings if the technology matures.
Despite the promising features of semi-solid-state batteries, Huang acknowledged the current high costs associated with their production. She noted that the sample units could be anywhere from 10 to 30 times more expensive than conventional lithium-ion cells. However, there is optimism that as production scales up and partnerships with major manufacturing entities evolve, costs will eventually come down.
Factorial’s advancements align with global trends, with various countries, including China, investing heavily in battery technology. Huang emphasized the potential of solid-state batteries to address multiple challenges related to range, safety, and longevity in electric vehicle applications. The aspiration is to consolidate battery technology into a singular, efficient solution that effectively meets the evolving demands of the automotive industry.
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