By DCB Editorial, July 29, 2025
Mercedes-Benz has announced a strategic partnership with U.S.-based battery developer Factorial Energy to commercialise next-generation solid-state battery (SSB) technology. The collaboration aims to integrate these advanced battery systems into Mercedes’ upcoming electric vehicle (EV) lineup, with series production targeted before 2030.
Technology Details:
The solid-state battery, branded as Solstice, utilizes a sulfide-based solid electrolyte. This chemistry offers key advantages over conventional liquid lithium-ion batteries, including enhanced safety, higher energy density, and improved thermal and chemical stability. Mercedes claims the technology will deliver a 25% increase in driving range. For reference, applying this improvement to the current WLTP-rated EQS 450+ (511 miles) suggests a potential range of over 620 miles on a single charge.
Development Timeline:
Markus Schäfer, Mercedes’ Chief Technology Officer, confirmed the automaker plans to introduce SSB-equipped EVs by 2030, with pre-series validation expected prior to that. Schäfer emphasised the need for a fundamental shift in battery chemistry, stating, “At the core, a new chemistry is needed.”
Strategic Implications:
Mercedes-Benz views this battery innovation as essential for reducing vehicle cost, enhancing performance, and maintaining its competitive position in the EV sector. The partnership with Factorial also places Mercedes among several global OEMs pursuing solid-state technology.
Factorial is also working with other major automakers, including Volkswagen, BMW, Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, who are advancing their own solid-state programs. Meanwhile, Chinese leaders BYD and CATL are rapidly developing solid-state and next-gen battery technologies.
The Mercedes-Factorial collaboration represents a significant move toward solid-state battery integration in production vehicles. With promises of longer range, increased safety, and reduced costs, solid-state technology is expected to play a critical role in the next generation of electric mobility, with widespread adoption likely by the end of the decade.