• Mercedes will test the safety credentials of ProLogium’s solid-state batteries.
  • The fourth-generation tech includes a non-flammable inorganic electrolyte.
  • ProLogium is planning a large solid-state battery plant in Dunkirk, France.

For more than a decade, Mercedes-Benz has worked with Taiwanese energy company ProLogium to help bring advanced solid-state battery technology to the auto industry. The two firms have now strengthened their partnership, meaning Mercedes will get priority access to test the firm’s fourth-generation cells, which could help to reshape the automotive industry.

Solid-state batteries have long been viewed as the holy grail of battery tech. By replacing the liquid electrolytes of traditional lithium-ion batteries with non-flammable solid materials, these batteries offer higher energy density, support faster charging, are safer, and last longer.

Read: Geely’s New Solid-State Battery Lasts 621,000 Miles And Starts Pilot Testing Next Year

Mercedes-Benz, much like BYD, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, VW, Stellantis, Chery, and others, is actively developing and testing these batteries for its next generation of EVs. Some may be ready to hit the market within the next 12 months.

Through its deal with ProLogium, Mercedes-Benz will perform electrical, thermal, and safety testing on the company’s Gen4 lithium ceramic battery cells at its facilities and at third-party testing institutes. These batteries use ceramic separator technology and have a non-flammable inorganic electrolyte, which is said to enable not only fast charging but also high power output.

“At Mercedes-Benz, we are committed to shaping the future of electric mobility through technological leadership and innovation,” Mercedes-Benz Group AG member of the Board of Management, Jörg Burzer, said. “Our long-standing partnership with ProLogium is a strong example of how we bring the best expertise together to advance next-generation battery technologies. By combining ProLogium’s pioneering solid-state battery approach with Mercedes-Benz’s deep battery development, testing and integration capabilities, we are taking the next step in exploring advanced battery technologies for future electric vehicles.”

Solid-State Battery Production Is Coming To Europe

ProLogium already operates a large battery factory in Taiwan and is planning a site in Dunkirk, France, with a capacity of up to 44 GWh. It says this factory will allow it to provide cells to customers across the continent, including Mercedes.

The German brand has another important solid-state battery partner. In addition to working alongside ProLogium, Mercedes-Benz is also testing lithium-metal battery cells from American company Factorial Energy.

Last year, a Mercedes-Benz EQS equipped with one of Factorial’s solid-state battery packs was driven 748.8 miles (1,205 km) on a single charge. It could have been driven even further, as Mercedes says the EQS finished the test with an estimated range of 85 miles (137 km) left.