According to Electrek, Mercedes-Benz has achieved a major breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology by successfully integrating solid-state lithium-metal batteries into a production vehicle platform. This marks a pivotal moment in EV development, with the potential to extend driving range, enhance battery efficiency, and improve safety. In collaboration with Factorial Energy, a leading U.S.-based solid-state battery innovator, Mercedes-Benz has launched on-road tests for its first solid-state EV battery prototype, achieving an unprecedented range of over 621 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge.
Key Innovations of Mercedes-Benz’s Solid-State Battery Technology
- Breakthrough Energy Density: 450 Wh/kg, a 80% increase over traditional lithium-ion batteries.
- Extended Driving Range: Expected to increase range by 25% compared to current lithium-ion packs, pushing Mercedes’ EQS model beyond 620 miles.
- Lighter & More Compact Design: Factorial’s Solstice all-solid-state battery is 33% smaller and offers 40% weight savings compared to a standard 90 kWh lithium-ion battery.
- Enhanced Safety & Efficiency: Sulfide-based solid electrolytes reduce the risk of battery fires while improving charge times and longevity.
Advancing from Lab to Real-World Testing
Mercedes-Benz has worked with Factorial Energy since 2021, developing next-generation solid-state battery technology to power luxury EV models. The company has now moved beyond lab testing to on-road validation.
“Being the first to successfully integrate lithium-metal solid-state batteries into a production vehicle platform marks a historic achievement in electric mobility.” – Siyu Huang, CEO, Factorial Energy
The modified EQS prototype began road trials in early 2025, following Factorial’s successful 40 Ah solid-state battery cell validation in December 2024. The next step involves further scalability testing, with an aim to commercialize production by 2030.
The Competitive Landscape: Global Solid-State Battery Race
Mercedes-Benz is competing with a growing list of automakers and battery manufacturers racing to bring solid-state batteries to market. Several key industry players have already announced major investments and technological advancements:
- Hyundai & Stellantis: Hyundai aims to unveil its solid-state EV battery demo line in March 2025, while Stellantis plans to launch a solid-state Dodge Charger fleet by 2026.
- Honda & Toyota: Honda revealed its pilot production line for solid-state batteries in November 2024, and Toyota has announced plans for mass production by 2028.
- Chinese Battery Giants (CATL & BYD): CATL, the world’s largest battery maker, is developing sulfide-based solid-state batteries, while BYD aims to commercialize its first-generation solid-state cells by 2027.
Commercialization and Industry Impact
According to Markus Schäfer, CTO at Mercedes-Benz, solid-state batteries will “set new standards in range, cost, and performance”. The company is focused on scaling production, with full commercialization expected by the end of the decade.
If successful, solid-state technology will redefine the EV market, offering higher energy density, faster charging, and extended battery lifespan. This could lead to a shift in EV design, enabling smaller, lighter battery packs while maintaining high performance.
Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Battery Technology
With major automakers and battery innovators accelerating solid-state battery research, the race toward next-generation EV technology is intensifying. Mercedes-Benz’s successful on-road trials of solid-state batteries mark a significant step toward the mass adoption of longer-range, safer, and more efficient EVs. By 2030, solid-state batteries are expected to be a mainstream option in high-end EVs, potentially disrupting the lithium-ion market and shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
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