The automotive industry is currently experiencing a significant transformation, primarily driven by innovations in electric mobility. Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), a 100 % subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz Group specialising in industry-leading Formula 1 technologies, and the Mercedes‑Benz Center of Competence for Battery Systems designed and developed a completely new and innovative battery system. In addition to its prowess on the racetrack, HPP is capable of rapidly transferring F1 technologies and know-how into high-performance automotive projects.
Understanding Solid-State Battery Technology
Solid-state batteries mark a major breakthrough in battery technology. Unlike traditional lithium-ion cells, which use liquid electrolytes, solid-state batteries utilize solid electrolytes. This change enhances the safety of these batteries and permits the use of advanced anodes such as lithium metal, leading to a significant performance upgrade.
One of the primary advantages of this technology is its impressive energy density. For instance, with a lithium-metal anode, solid-state batteries can achieve gravimetric energy densities of up to 450 Wh/kg at the cell level. This is a substantial improvement compared to conventional batteries, which typically offer energy densities around 200-250 Wh/kg. Such advancements are critical for electric vehicles, where every ounce of weight savings can enhance fuel efficiency and driving range.
“Developing an automotive-scale solid-state battery underlines our commitment to innovation and sustainability. We’re therefore excited to announce that we’ve started road testing with a prototype vehicle equipped with this advanced technology. We will gain crucial insights into possible series integration of this cutting-edge battery technology.”
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG. Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement
The Development Journey of Mercedes-Benz's Solid-State Battery
The partnership between Mercedes-AMG HPP and the Center of Competence for Battery Systems highlights Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to leading the charge in electric mobility. After rigorous testing on various benches, they crafted a prototype solid-state battery and integrated it into the EQS electric model, expected by the end of 2024.
To optimize performance, minor modifications were made to the EQS, ensuring it included all necessary components for the solid-state technology to function optimally. Laboratory tests kicked off in Stuttgart towards the end of 2024, soon followed by on-road trials starting in February 2025.
This testing phase is vital for ensuring the new battery system is safe and efficient for everyday use, which may include examining its performance under various driving conditions.
“Being the first to successfully integrate lithium metal solid-state batteries into a production vehicle platform marks a historic achievement in electric mobility. This breakthrough demonstrates that solid-state battery technology has moved beyond the laboratory and into real-world application, setting a new benchmark for the entire automotive industry. Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz proves that the future of electric vehicles is not just a vision, but a reality we're delivering today.”
Siyu Huang, CEO and Co-Founder of Factorial Energy
Advantages of Solid-State Batteries
The transition to solid-state batteries offers several advantages that could reshape electric mobility. One significant benefit is enhanced safety. The solid electrolyte significantly lowers the risks of fire and leaks commonly associated with traditional batteries.
Additionally, incorporating lithium metal in the anodes allows these batteries to store more energy without adding substantial weight. This reduction in weight, along with improved safety, can enhance driving range and performance. For example, solid-state batteries could allow electric vehicles to achieve ranges exceeding 500 miles on a single charge, a game-changer in the market.
As the industry evolves, the impressive gravimetric energy density of solid-state technology is set to establish new standards for electric vehicle performance.
The Future of Electric Mobility
The importance of solid-state batteries in electric mobility cannot be underestimated. Mercedes-Benz is leading the way in this realm, and their collaboration with HPP is a significant step in mixing motorsport engineering with consumer automotive technology. This partnership underscores their proactive approach to tackling the challenges of electric mobility.
Developing solid-state batteries goes beyond improving existing vehicles; it aims to change perceptions of electric mobility. By pushing the boundaries of battery technology, this collaboration seeks to establish new benchmarks for sustainability, efficiency, and performance in the automotive industry.
Real-World Testing and Market Release
As field tests commenced in February 2025, anticipation around Mercedes-Benz’s solid-state battery system is high. The transition from laboratory conditions to real-world applications is a crucial step for electric vehicles. Thorough evaluations carried out by engineering teams will ensure upcoming models not only meet safety requirements but also exceed performance standards.
With prototypes undergoing rigorous testing, the focus will be on optimizing the battery system for various models within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, gradually introducing this revolutionary technology for everyone to experience.
A Vision for Sustainability
The advancement of solid-state battery technology also aligns with global sustainability goals. As electric mobility gains traction, the automotive industry plays a key role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources.
Mercedes-Benz recognizes that achieving a sustainable future requires ongoing innovation and commitment. Their solid-state battery system showcases their dedication not only to enhancing mobility but also to addressing critical environmental concerns that the industry faces.
The collaboration between Mercedes-AMG HPP and the Mercedes-Benz Center of Competence for Battery Systems is a landmark achievement in the pursuit of excellence in electric mobility. With the development of the solid-state battery system, Mercedes-Benz is not merely making advancements; it is redefining possibilities within the automotive space.
As field tests evolve and expand, the industry eagerly anticipates the results from this ambitious project. The potential of solid-state batteries to revolutionize energy density and safety features promises an exciting future—one where electric vehicles can outperform traditional options, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient world.
With each stride forward, Mercedes-Benz strengthens its role as a leader in automotive innovation, addressing future challenges with forward-thinking technology that excites and inspires.
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