Stellantis has announced that its solid-state batteries are nearing commercialization. The parent company of notable brands such as Jeep, Dodge, and Ram is collaborating with startup Factorial to develop these new batteries, which have recently passed validation for automotive applications. Installation in a demonstrator fleet is expected by 2026.
Current electric vehicles (EVs) typically utilize “wet” lithium-ion batteries that rely on liquid electrolytes for energy transfer. In contrast, solid-state batteries, which have been slow to enter the market, promise enhanced charging speeds, increased capacity, and extended vehicle ranges.
The new battery packs, termed Factorial Electrolyte System Technology (FEST) by Stellantis and Factorial, claim to offer superior density and faster charging capabilities compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. They can reportedly charge from 15% to 90% in just 18 minutes at room temperature. Factorial’s design features a lithium-metal anode, a quasi-solid electrolyte, and a high-capacity cathode.
Stellantis reports that its 77Ah FEST cells have achieved an impressive energy density of 375Wh/kg with more than 600 charging cycles, marking a significant milestone for large-format lithium-metal solid-state batteries. Beyond rapid charging, these solid-state cells also provide higher power output, with discharge rates reaching up to 4C, enhancing EV performance.
Factorial’s batteries are designed to operate effectively in diverse weather conditions, with good performance recorded in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 45°C (-22°F to 113°F).
“Developing batteries involves navigating compromises. While enhancing one attribute may be straightforward, achieving a balance of high energy density, longevity, rapid charging, and safety within an automotive-sized battery is a groundbreaking accomplishment,” stated Siyu Huang, CEO of Factorial Energy. “This partnership with Stellantis is turning next-generation battery technology from concept into reality.”
Stellantis’ announcement signifies important advancements in the field, and it’s not alone in this pursuit. Hyundai and Mercedes are among the investors in Factorial, with Mercedes set to incorporate Factorial’s semi-solid-state batteries into its EVs by 2026, as reported by Reuters. Additionally, Honda aims to unveil solid-state EVs in the latter half of the decade, while Toyota plans to mass-produce solid-state batteries that deliver over 621 miles of range by 2028. Volkswagen is also collaborating with Quantum State, which has recently made its own significant progress.
However, the U.S. risks falling behind China, where companies like CATL and BYD are revealing innovations that could enable EVs to achieve fast charging in as little as five minutes.
