by Bavaria advances better battery technology one more step toward reality.
Solid-state batteries are seen as the unavoidable next step for electric vehicles, yet developing them progresses slowly. A well-known carmaker from Germany has experience with this lengthy process, evident in the i7 M70 model showcased here, which features batteries developed starting back in 2016. This manufacturer intends to conduct extensive real-world testing of the vehicle through various roads around Munich.
BMW utilizes an investment and implements knowledge gained from its initial solid-state battery car.
We'll begin with the timeline. In 2016, BMW started collaborating with Solid Power, a battery manufacturer. By mid-2021, this alliance intensified when both BMW and Ford officially invested in Solid Power during their Series B financing round. Towards the close of 2022, relations deepened further as BMW initiated a pilot production line for cells using technology from Solid Power. Now, we get to see what all these efforts have yielded—a BMW i7 M70 equipped with solid-state batteries said to be a product of this collaboration.
Notably, the solid-state batteries featured here share more similarities with the electric vehicles (EVs) currently produced by BMW rather than the forthcoming Neue Klasse (NK) models. The NK cars utilize cylindrical cells that are densely arranged without modules, contrasting with the present BMW EVs that employ a prismatic design featuring modules. BMW refers to this fifth-generation technology as "established," possibly explaining why they chose it over the cutting-edge sixth-generation batteries. According to BMW, the testing of the i7 prototype aims primarily at gaining insights into managing cell expansion along with regulating temperature and pressure conditions.
Solid-state batteries represent the future for electric vehicles, yet advancements still need to be achieved.
Solid-state batteries present substantial benefits. They boast greater energy density and reduced total mass compared to contemporary battery technologies. This enhancement leads to improved range and operational efficiency. Additionally, these batteries exhibit superior resistance to temperature extremes, reducing fire hazards and boosting their reliability from a consumer perspective. However, the primary drawback remains the high cost. An automobile manufacturer commented earlier this year that due to expense concerns, they were unable to implement solid-state technology broadly because consumers would likely hesitate paying additional fees required for such advancements. Nevertheless, around the same period, another competitor, Mercedes-Benz, stated they were nearing full-scale production of solid-state batteries. Likewise, the company based in Affalterbach has been experimenting with an EQS model equipped with "semi-solid-state" cells as part of their ongoing trials.
Final thoughts
While solid-state batteries hold promise for the future, conventional lithium-ion technology still has significant potential for enhancement. Consider BMW's Neue Klasse vehicles, expected to achieve up to 500 miles of range per charge. It seems improbable that a mass-produced automobile equipped with solid-state batteries will hit the market within this decade; after all, most companies' development plans are well established. However, since several automakers are undoubtedly focusing ahead, it makes sense to anticipate gradual advancements over the coming decade. Initially, these cutting-edge technologies might debut in limited-production luxury models at premium prices before gradually becoming more widespread. As for whether Mercedes can outpace BMW remains uncertain.
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