• EV Tech Insider
  • Posts
  • Factorial Energy delivers B-samples of lithium-metal solid-state cells to Mercedez-Benz

Factorial Energy delivers B-samples of lithium-metal solid-state cells to Mercedez-Benz

July 07, 2024

Factorial Inc., a developer of solid-state battery technology for electric vehicle (EV) applications, has announced the delivery of B-samples of its 106+Ah lithium-metal solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz. This delivery is part of an ongoing joint development agreement and represents the first announced B-sample shipment of solid-state battery cells to a global automotive OEM. This achievement demonstrates progress towards product maturity and the series production of passenger EVs equipped with Factorial’s solid-state battery technology.

Previously, Factorial has produced thousands of large-format solid-state batteries and shipped over 1,000 100+Ah solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz during the A-sample phase. The B-samples will be integrated into modules and battery packs for extensive testing and optimization. This phase involves validating the module and pack designs against Mercedes-Benz’s performance specifications. It will also confirm the robustness of Factorial’s supply chain and manufacturing processes, ensuring scalability for future vehicle testing.

Factorial’s solid-state battery cells are based on the company’s proprietary FEST® (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) platform. This includes a lithium-metal anode, which is the lightest metal on earth and enables the high energy density of 391Wh/kg. The batteries are manufactured using existing equipment from lithium-ion battery production, requiring minimal modifications. This approach can streamline the manufacturing validation process and significantly reduce long-term operating costs.

Factorial has established itself as a key technology partner for leading automakers pursuing battery innovation to advance their EV portfolios. In addition to Mercedes-Benz, Factorial has joint development agreements with Stellantis and Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation.

Siyu Huang, CEO and Co-Founder of Factorial, said, “We are thrilled to advance to the B-sample phase and to mark this milestone with a global automotive leader like Mercedes-Benz. This swift progression from A-sample to B-sample delivery in under a year highlights Factorial’s rapid innovation capabilities and we continue to push the envelope to accelerate the adoption of solid-state batteries in the automotive sector. As a U.S. cell maker, we believe our high energy density cell will help build more efficient and sustainable vehicles that will set new standards for electric vehicle range, cost and performance globally.”

Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, added, “We are committed to leading in innovative battery technologies, and our partnership with Factorial is a significant part of this strategy. These B-sample batteries give us the opportunity to further validate this next-generation battery technology with the goal of enhancing range and performance, reducing overall vehicle costs, and offering the most desirable electric vehicles to our customers.”

About Factorial Inc.

Factorial is a U.S.-based company developing breakthrough solid-state batteries that offer longer range per charge and increased safety, aiming to be cost-competitive with conventional lithium-ion batteries. The company’s proprietary FEST® (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) leverages a solid electrolyte material, which has the potential to enable safe and reliable cell performance with high-capacity cathode and anode materials. FEST® has been scaled in 100+Ah cells, works at room temperature, and is compatible with existing lithium-ion battery manufacturing equipment. The company has entered into joint development agreements with Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, and Hyundai Motor Company. More information can be found at http://www.factorialenergy.com. © 2024 Factorial Inc. All rights reserved. Factorial, the Factorial logo and FEST are registered trademarks in the United States and/or other countries. Other trademarks are property of their respective owners.