A few days ago, BMW said that it will begin testing solid-state batteries developed in cooperation with Solid Power, a US battery technology company, this year. Since 2017, BMW has been working with Solid Power to develop solid-state batteries for automotive applications. In the latest phase of the partnership, BMW will also manufacture a prototype version of the Solid Power battery at its battery lab near Munich, Germany. Loading tests of the battery are scheduled to take place before 2025. BMW has previously said that cars equipped with solid-state batteries could be launched in 2030.
Named for its solid electrolyte, this battery is expected to increase cruising range and shorten charging time while improving safety and reducing costs compared to current liquid batteries. The main hurdle at the moment is still the high-volume batteries needed to build cars.
Frank Weber, head of research and development at BMW, said in a statement: "BMW is committed to pursuing all-solid-state batteries, and we believe this technology has great potential in the future. "Before the introduction of solid-state batteries, BMW will introduce a new lithium-ion battery in a circular battery design that will have a 30% higher range than current batteries of similar size and weight. BMW will use the battery in electric vehicles on the Neue Klasse platform, the first new car of which will be available in 2025.