by Last fall, Stellantis and Factorial announced plans to install solid-state batteries by 2026. This development is becoming closer today, as both companies have successfully validated automotive solid-state batteries with an energy density of 375 Wh/kg.
While this is Shakespearean language for many of us, the automaker reported that they have validated 77Ah FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) battery cells over 600 cycles and they are “progressing toward automotive qualification.” The latter is a “milestone” for large-format lithium-metal solid-state batteries.
Among other things, besides impressive energy density, solid-state batteries allow for significantly reduced charging time. Specifically, at room temperature, they can charge from 15% to 90% in 18 minutes. Furthermore, the cells also promise to “deliver high power output with a discharge rate of up to 4C, supporting the requirements for high performance in .”
Although work is still ongoing, Factorial’s latest electrolyte formulation allows operation at temperatures from -22°C to 45°C. This is a fairly wide range, which will allow solid-state electric vehicles to operate in all but the most extreme climatic conditions.
Ned Curic, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer of Stellantis, noted: “This breakthrough puts us at the forefront of the solid-state revolution, but we are not stopping there. We continue our collaborative work to push the boundaries and deliver even more advanced solutions, bringing us closer to lighter, more efficient batteries that reduce costs for our customers.”
His statements were supported by Factorial Energy CEO Siu Huang, who said: “Battery development is about trade-offs. While optimizing one function is simple, balancing high energy density, cycle life, fast charging, and safety in an automotive battery with a validated original manufacturer’s concept is a breakthrough. This achievement with moves next-generation battery technology from the research level to reality.”
