Mercedes-Benz is taking a major step toward the future of electric vehicles by testing a new solid-state battery that could dramatically extend driving range. The company is developing the technology in partnership with U.S.-based Factorial Energy, aiming to roll out its first production model featuring the innovation before 2030.
A Game-Changer for Electric Vehicles
The automaker is using an EQS saloon to evaluate the battery’s efficiency, durability, and overall performance. While the car itself has seen only minor modifications—mainly to fit the new battery pack—the technology inside represents a major leap forward.
Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, this solid-state version uses a floating cell carrier system with pneumatic actuators. These components, developed by Mercedes-Benz’s Formula 1 engineers, help manage the battery’s natural expansion and contraction during charging and discharging. This process is expected to enhance battery stability and longevity, making EVs more reliable over time.
Pushing the Limits of EV Range
Mercedes-Benz anticipates that its solid-state battery will deliver a significant boost in range. For comparison, the current EQS 450+ saloon is equipped with a 118kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a WLTP-certified range of 511 miles. The new battery, however, is expected to push that figure beyond 620 miles under real-world conditions—a roughly 25% increase.
The technology behind this improvement is impressive. Factorial Energy has supplied battery cells with an energy density of up to 391Wh/kg and a charging capacity exceeding 106Ah. The pack also features a patented lithium-metal anode and polymer separator, helping to maximize energy storage and efficiency.
The Future of Solid-State Batteries
The battery being tested in the EQS prototype is just the beginning. Mercedes-Benz and Factorial Energy are working on an even more advanced version, internally named “Solstice.” This next-generation solid-state battery will use a sulphide-based solid electrolyte instead of a polymer separator, targeting an energy density of 450Wh/kg. If successful, this innovation could boost range by 80% compared to today’s lithium-ion batteries.
Beyond just batteries, Mercedes-Benz is also focusing on next-generation silicon carbide inverters and power electronics. Developed at AMG High Performance Powertrain in Brixworth, these advancements are expected to improve energy efficiency and overall vehicle performance.
What This Means for Future Mercedes Models
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to solid-state technology suggests big changes ahead for its electric lineup. The company is expected to unveil a new concept vehicle in the coming years, similar to its Vision EQXX, which debuted in 2022.
This cutting-edge technology could find its way into the next generation of compact Mercedes-Benz models, including successors to the CLA saloon, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA/EQA, and GLB/EQB. If all goes according to plan, these future EVs will offer significantly longer ranges, better efficiency, and improved performance—cementing Mercedes-Benz’s position as a leader in electric vehicle innovation.
