SOLID POWER

Start-up will supply batteries for Ford and BMW

In 2017, German automaker BMW invested in start-up Solid Power, which aims to develop and mass-produce solid-state batteries that can be used in electric vehicles. Later, Ford Motor joined the ranks of investors, and now by the end of the year, both automakers can receive the first samples of Solid Power batteries for further testing.

This will be possible, according to a press release, thanks to the launch of a pilot line for the production of Solid Power batteries with solid state electrolyte in Colorado. This line will be able to produce 300 battery cells per week, in annual terms, the productivity will reach 15,000 pieces. This should be enough to provide key customers with enough batteries for qualification testing. BMW and Ford will begin receiving samples of Solid Power cells later this year.

Solid Power partners also include Hyundai, Samsung and SK On. The latter two will certainly be able, if necessary, to establish the mass production of the corresponding batteries - especially since the developers indicate the possibility of using existing technological equipment. The cells developed by Solid Power contain 50% more silicon in the anode, increasing the energy storage density and increasing the range of an electric vehicle without changing the mass. The absence of a liquid electrolyte in the cell increases the safety of operation and allows for faster battery charging.

Based on Solid Power cells, it will be possible to create batteries with a capacity of 60 to 100 Ah. The cost of the new batteries should be lower than the traditional ones, which will also contribute to the growth of their popularity.

Image source: Solid Power