Mercedes testing EVs with solid-state batteries on the road 'in a few months'

Mercedes-Benz is set to begin testing electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with solid-state batteries within a few months. This initiative is part of the company's strategy to enhance EV performance, focusing on ultra-long range and fast charging capabilities. Collaborating with partners Factorial and Prologium, Mercedes aims to develop solid-state batteries that promise an 80% increase in range, achieving up to 600 miles on a single charge while reducing weight by 40%. The new batteries, which feature a breakthrough energy density of 450 Wh/kg, are also designed to be smaller and safer, eliminating the need for heavy cooling systems, thus lowering costs. Mercedes has already invested in Factorial and is confident in the mass production of these batteries by 2030. The testing phase will allow the company to integrate its technology into the new battery cells. This development comes as other automakers, including Toyota, are also advancing their solid-state battery technologies, with plans to produce them by the end of the decade.

- Mercedes-Benz will start testing solid-state battery EVs in a few months.

- The new batteries promise an 80% increase in range and a 40% weight reduction.

- Collaborations with Factorial and Prologium are key to the development of these batteries.

- The solid-state batteries are expected to be commercially available by 2030.

- Other automakers, like Toyota, are also pursuing solid-state battery technology.