US solid-state battery firm Factorial has introduced its new Solstice battery, developed in conjunction with German OEM Mercedes, that promises energy density of up to 450Wh/kg. The product also “incorporates a novel dry cathode design for more efficient and sustainable production”, the firm says.
Factorial hopes to introduce the technology to OEMs before the end of the decade. Solstice’s high energy density promises to extend EV range up to 80pc while significantly reducing vehicle weight and increasing vehicle efficiency.
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Its sulphide-based all-solid-state electrolyte system aims to address safety concerns associated with more flammable and volatile liquid electrolyte designs, targeting a EUCAR safety rating of 2 and maintaining stability at operating temperatures over 90°C. This also has the potential, Factorial says, to reduce the cooling system requirements within the battery pack to lower overall vehicle cost.
Through a novel dry coating process, Solstice promises to eliminate the need for hazardous solvents and energy-intensive steps commonly used in traditional cathode production. The technology also bypasses the formation process — the most energy-consuming stage of lithium-ion battery manufacturing. By combining these innovations, Solstice is targeted at reducing operating costs, energy consumption, and environmental impact.
“Solstice embodies our team’s technology leadership and the potential of solid-state batteries to address the most significant hurdles for electric vehicle adoption," says Siyu Huang, co-founder and CEO of Factorial. "Solstice not only will enhance the range and performance of electric vehicles but also aligns with our vision for a more sustainable future.”
"The Solstice solid-state battery technology represents another landmark milestone in our partnership with Factorial, which is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz's strategy and commitment to leading the charge in battery development," says Mercedes chief technology officer Markus Schaefer. “Solstice offers further improvements in energy density and safety features that will help us develop electric vehicles that set new standards in range, cost, and performance.”
As well as Mercedes, Factorial has established joint development agreements with other automakers such as Stellantis and the Hyundai Group. It opened a battery manufacturing facility in the suburbs of Boston in October last year.
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