BMW’s flagship electric vehicles, powered by groundbreaking all-solid-state battery technology, have already taken to the streets for rigorous testing. BMW leveraged its i7 model to test the “holy grail” of electric vehicle battery technology, seeking to deliver extended driving ranges at a reduced cost.
BMW takes first steps in all-solid-state battery technology, putting electric vehicles to the test.
BMW marks a significant milestone as it completes the world’s first on-road tests of vehicles equipped with Stable Energy’s pioneering all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells, paving the way for the widespread adoption of sustainable mobility solutions.
Dubbed the “Holy Grail” of electric vehicle (EV) battery innovation, Advanced Solid-State Batteries (ASSBs) offer a significant leap in energy density over current technology. As all-solid-state batteries condense enhanced vitality density into a more compact form, this innovation has the potential to boost driving range at a lower cost.
The iX3 electric SUV leverages BMW’s cutting-edge Generation 5 architecture, featuring innovative prismatic cells arranged in modules to deliver enhanced performance and efficiency. BMW modified its platform to integrate Stable Energy’s advanced solid-state battery (ASSB) cells, incorporating innovative module designs.
BMW has collaborated with Stable Energy since 2022 to accelerate the development of cutting-edge EV battery technology. BMW revealed in December 2022 that it intends to license technology from Stable Energy to develop a new generation of stable cell prototypes at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre (CMCC) in Parsdorf.
The German automotive manufacturer plans to conduct a thorough examination of sulfide-based electrolytes within solid-state battery packs over the next several months.
Building on Mercedes-Benz’s breakthrough in February, BMW has now followed suit, unveiling the world’s first mass-produced vehicle to run solely on a lithium-metal solid-state battery, achieved through its strategic collaboration with US-based Factorial Power.
The automaker Mercedes leveraged a customized EQS platform, paired with cutting-edge solid-state battery technology. With a projected 40% reduction in weight compared to current lithium-ion batteries, Factorial aims to unlock over 600 miles of driving range.
After a milestone, it follows that Martin Schuster, the BMW Group’s executive, reiterated in February that solid-state batteries remain too expensive, while current lithium-ion batteries still have a long way to go.
Electrek’s Take
Germany’s automotive industry won’t have a monopoly on pioneering cutting-edge battery technology. Global battery pioneers CATL and BYD are poised to unveil electric vehicles featuring cutting-edge all-solid-state battery technology within the next few years.
Solar Huajun, Chief Technology Officer at Shenzhen BYD Lithium Battery Co., predicted earlier this year that the company anticipates launching its initial electric vehicles equipped with all-solid-state batteries as early as 2027. While production of Advanced Steel-Bonded (ASSB) vehicles is likely to be limited in the initial two-year period, BYD anticipates a significant increase in demand, with ASSBs entering the mainstream market by 2030.
Within the preliminary stage, BYD plans to employ a sulfide-based solution in select high-end models. According to reports, Chinese battery giant CATL is expected to begin producing all-solid-state EV batteries (SSBs) in 2027, albeit in limited quantities, mirroring the strategy adopted by BYD.
Several major automotive companies, including Hyundai, Nissan, Stellantis, Toyota, and Honda, are engaged in a competitive effort to pioneer the next generation of electric vehicle battery technology.
The automotive industry is poised to witness a revolution in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology with the imminent arrival of all-solid-state EV batteries. These innovative power cells promise significant advancements over traditional lithium-ion batteries, boasting enhanced safety, greater energy density, and faster charging times. Among the major players, Hyundai Motor Group has announced plans to introduce its proprietary Solid-State Electric Vehicle Battery in 2024. Despite CATL and BYD dominating the market, newcomers are swiftly closing in through rigorous on-road testing. What are you hoping to achieve with this statement?
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